Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, but it’s also when fleas and ticks are at their peak activity. Ensuring your dog is protected during these months is vital for their health and well-being.
Let’s explore some tips and strategies for keeping your dog safe from fleas and ticks, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free summer together!
Why Summer Increases Flea and Tick Risks
Summer conditions – like heat and humidity – create the perfect environment for flea and tick populations.
Fleas and ticks peak during the warmer months when temperatures range between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In these conditions, fleas and ticks thrive, reproduce rapidly, and seek out hosts for feeding. Additionally, high humidity levels provide an ideal breeding ground, further increasing the risk of infestation.
What is the best way to prevent fleas and ticks?
Each dog has different needs based on age, breed, health status, and lifestyle. And what works to prevent fleas and ticks for one dog may not work for another.
When creating a strategy, your veterinarian is your best resource for personalized flea and tick prevention advice. They can help you choose the most effective and safe products for your dog.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends asking your vet the following questions:
- What parasites does this product protect against?
- How often should I use/apply the product?
- How long will it take for the product to work?
- If I see a flea or tick, does that mean it’s not working?
- What should I do if my pet reacts to the product?
- Is there a need for more than one product?
- How would I apply or use multiple products on my pet?
What is the best treatment for ticks and fleas on dogs?
Choosing the best treatment for ticks and fleas on your dog depends on your dog’s specific needs, lifestyle, and health status. With that in mind, here are some of the best flea and tick products available:
Chewable Treatments
Chewables are a popular and convenient option for many dog owners and are typically easy to give to your dog. They enter your dog’s bloodstream and kill fleas and ticks when they bite.
Some of the top chewable flea and tick preventatives* include:
- NexGard: Known for its effectiveness and ease of use, NexGard is a monthly chewable that kills fleas and ticks fast. It’s favored for its beef-flavored chew, which dogs often enjoy.
- Bravecto: This chewable provides up to 12 weeks of protection with a single dose, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer less frequent dosing.
- Simparica: Another monthly option, Simparica provides rapid relief from fleas and ticks and continues to protect for a full 30 days.
(*All three of these options require a prescription from your veterinarian.)
For non-prescription chewable treatments, check out:
- Advantus: A fast-acting, over-the-counter chewable that kills fleas within one hour. It’s suitable for use as needed, up to once per day, and can be used alongside other treatments.
Advantus, Large Dog Oral Flea Treatment Soft Chew
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Advantus, Small Dog Oral Flea Treatment Soft Chew
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- Capstar: This product provides quick relief from adult fleas, starting to work within 30 minutes. It’s ideal for immediate, short-term flea control, can be given daily, and is often part of a broader management plan.
Capstar, Nitenpyram Oral Flea Treatment For Dogs, 6 pk
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Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are applied directly to your dog’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The treatment is absorbed into the skin, killing fleas and ticks on contact.
Some of the best topical treatments include:
- Frontline Plus: This monthly topical treatment is one of the most widely used and trusted products. It kills fleas, flea eggs, lice, and ticks, offering comprehensive protection.
Frontline Plus for Dogs, Large, 3 pk.
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Frontline Plus for Dogs, Extra Large, 3 pk.
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Frontline Plus for Dogs, Medium, 3 pk.
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Frontline Plus for Dogs & Puppies, Small 3 pk.
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- Advantage II: Known for its ability to kill fleas through contact, Advantage II is effective against all life stages of fleas and provides month-long protection.
Advantage II for Large Dogs, 4 pack
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Advantage, II Extra Large Dog, 4 pack
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Advantage II for Medium Dogs, 4 pack
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Advantage II for Small Dogs, 4 pack
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- K9 Advantix II: This treatment kills fleas and ticks and repels mosquitoes, lice, and biting flies. It’s an excellent option for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.
K9 Advantix II, for Extra Large Dogs, 4 pack
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K9 Advantix II for Medium Dogs, 4 pack
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K9 Advantix II, Large Dog Flea & Tick, 4 pack
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K9 Advantix II for Small Dogs, 4 pack
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Collars
Flea and tick collars are another effective option, especially for dogs that may not tolerate oral or topical treatments well. These collars release active ingredients over time to provide long-lasting protection.
Top flea and tick collars include:
- Seresto: Offering up to 8 months of continuous protection, Seresto collars are a favorite among pet owners. They are odorless, non-greasy, and water-resistant.
- Scalibor Protector Band: This collar provides up to 6 months of protection against ticks and up to 4 months against fleas. It’s adjustable and easy to use, making it a convenient choice for many dog owners.
- Adams Plus Flea & Tick Collar: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, the Adams Plus collar kills and repels fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes for up to 7 months.
Shampoos
Flea and tick shampoos are an effective option for dogs, especially when you need to provide immediate relief. These shampoos cleanse your dog’s coat and kill fleas and ticks on contact. They are handy for dogs needing frequent baths or sensitive skin.
Top flea and tick shampoos include:
- Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo: Known for its powerful formula, this shampoo kills fleas, ticks, and lice while soothing your dog’s skin with aloe, lanolin, and oatmeal. It also prevents flea eggs from hatching for 28 days.
- Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Advanced Strength Dog Shampoo: Made with natural ingredients like rosemary and peppermint oil, this shampoo effectively kills fleas and ticks while being gentle on your dog’s skin.
- Sentry Flea and Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal: This shampoo kills fleas and ticks while relieving itching with its oatmeal-infused formula. It is gentle enough for regular use.
Sprays and Wipes
Flea and tick sprays and wipes offer a versatile and convenient solution for preventing and treating infestations. These products can be used directly on your dog and your dog’s bedding and living areas to provide relief and protection.
Top flea and tick sprays and wipes include:
- Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray: Made with certified natural oils, this spray kills fleas, flea eggs, and ticks on contact. It can be used on dogs and home surfaces like furniture and bedding.
- Adams Flea and Tick Spray: This powerful spray kills fleas, ticks, flea eggs, and larvae quickly and protects for up to two months. It’s effective for direct application on dogs and for treating their environment.
- PetArmor Flea and Tick Treatment Spray for Dogs: It is easy to use and can be applied directly to your dog’s coat. It kills fleas and ticks on contact and protects for up to 30 days.
- Natural Care Flea and Tick Wipes: These convenient wipes infuse natural ingredients like peppermint oil and clove extract. They are perfect for on-the-go protection, allowing you to quickly wipe down your dog after outdoor activities.
What are natural ways to prevent fleas and ticks?
In addition to conventional flea and tick prevention products, here are some effective natural prevention methods:
Regular Grooming and Inspection
- Bathing: Regular baths with mild, natural shampoos can help wash away fleas and ticks. Look for shampoos containing ingredients like neem oil or eucalyptus, which have repellent properties.
- Combing: A fine-toothed flea comb can help remove fleas and ticks from your dog’s coat. This is especially effective after outdoor activities.
- Regular cleaning: Keep your dog’s living area clean by regularly washing their bedding and vacuuming areas where they spend time. This helps to remove any flea eggs and larvae.
Herbal Remedies and Essential Oils
- Lavender and cedarwood oils: They’re known for their flea and tick-repellent properties. Dilute these essential oils with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply a few drops to your dog’s collar or bedding.
- Apple cider vinegar: Mix one part apple cider vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle. Then spray on your dog’s coat as a natural repellent. Avoid spraying near the eyes, mouth, nose, and any open wounds.
Yard maintenance
- Yard maintenance: Keep your yard well-maintained by mowing the lawn and removing leaf litter and other debris where fleas and ticks can thrive.
- Cedar chips: Spread cedar chips around the perimeter of your yard or in areas where your dog frequently plays. The scent of cedar naturally repels fleas and ticks.
- Food-grade diatomaceous earth: This natural powder can be sprinkled around your home and yard. It works by dehydrating fleas and ticks upon contact. Ensure you use food-grade diatomaceous earth, not the kind meant for pool filtration.
- Soil treatment: Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that can be applied to your yard. They naturally prey on flea larvae, helping to reduce the flea population in your outdoor environment.
- Tick tubes: These are cardboard tubes filled with cotton balls soaked in permethrin, a natural insecticide. Mice collect the cotton to use as nesting material, which helps to kill ticks in their nests and reduce the overall tick population.
Common Flea and Tick Questions
Does my dog really need flea and tick prevention?
Yes, flea and tick prevention is crucial for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle or environment.
These parasites can pose serious health risks to dogs, including the transmission of diseases and discomfort from bites. Preventive measures can protect your dog from the harmful effects of fleas and ticks.
What months are fleas and ticks most active?
Fleas and ticks are most active during the warmer months, but their activity can vary based on location and climate. Here’s a general overview of their peak activity periods:
Fleas
- Spring to early fall: Fleas are most active from late spring through early fall when temperatures range from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These conditions provide the ideal environment for flea eggs to hatch and larvae to develop.
- Year-round in mild climates: Fleas can remain active throughout the year in regions with mild winters. Plus, indoor environments, heated homes, and pets can provide the warmth and humidity fleas need to survive even in colder months.
Ticks
- Late spring to early fall: Ticks are generally most active from late spring to early fall. They thrive in warm, humid conditions, making these months the peak period for tick activity.
However, depending on where you live, the ticks in your region can have different active cycles.
Deer Ticks
Often active from early spring to late fall, with peaks in activity during the spring and fall.
- Primarily found in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and north-central United States.
- Also present in parts of the southeastern U.S., particularly in coastal areas.
- Known to inhabit wooded, brushy areas that provide a suitable environment for their hosts, such as deer and small mammals.
American Dog Ticks
Typically active from spring through mid-summer.
- Widely distributed in the eastern half of the United States, from the Atlantic Coast to the eastern parts of the Great Plains.
- Also found in some areas of the Pacific Coast, particularly in California.
- Prefer grassy areas, such as meadows and trails, and can often be found in domestic settings where dogs frequent.
Lone Star Ticks
Active from early spring through late fall, peaking in late spring.
- Predominantly found in the southeastern and eastern United States.
- The range extends from Texas and Oklahoma in the west to the Atlantic Coast and from the Gulf of Mexico northward to Missouri and southern New York.
- Commonly inhabit wooded areas, particularly those with dense underbrush, and are also found in grassy meadows.
Check out the Mayo Clinic’s comprehensive guide for a breakdown of different ticks and their regions.
How often do dogs need flea and tick prevention?
The frequency depends on several factors, such as your dog’s exposure to outdoor environments, the prevalence of parasites in the area, and your chosen prevention method.
Most veterinarians recommend regular, year-round prevention to ensure continuous protection.
When should you start flea and tick prevention?
Start immediately since year-round prevention is the best practice.
Fleas and ticks aren’t only active during the summer. During winter, ticks can stay active at 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and fleas thrive indoors since they’re protected from cold outdoor temperatures.
Keeping up with flea and tick prevention during the winter and summer ensures your dog is protected from these pests regardless of the season.
If I see a flea or tick, does that mean the treatment isn’t working?
Seeing a flea or tick on your dog doesn’t necessarily mean the prevention product is not working. Most flea and tick preventatives kill these pests after they come into contact with your pet, so it’s possible to see them before they die.
However, if you notice a continual problem, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian to ensure the product is being used correctly or to explore alternative options.
Protecting Your Dog All Summer Long
With the right prevention plan, you and your dog can enjoy all summer’s fun and adventures without worrying about fleas and ticks!
