The Dirt on Fleas and Ticks

By: Brett Jorrey, CVA

As spring rolls around once more, there is one thing that we can all expect, and that is the re-invasion of fleas and ticks. Despite the few short-lived cold snaps that we have endured this winter season, the moisture content of the surrounding areas has been incredibly high. With this increased moisture, as you might have guessed, comes the increased proliferation of those pesky pests that we all hate: fleas and ticks. This is a growing concern that I feel is, unfortunately, often overlooked. Fleas can be very difficult to find on many of our dogs that have very thick and furry coats. Oftentimes, we never see the adult fleas themselves, rather we only find the evidence that they leave behind, what is known as “flea dirt”. In addition, the eggs and other life-stages of fleas embed themselves in bedding and carpet and can be difficult to exterminate, causing cyclic re-infestations.  Ticks are notorious for being sneaky and crawling into crevices that we have a hard time checking on our dogs, for example, down in the ears, armpits and beneath collars. Due to the incredible evolution of the tick species, most canines themselves cannot even detect that a tick is on them. And not only are these creatures unsightly, they can transmit diseases to our pets as well.

 Knowing all of this, it is evident why flea and tick prevention has been brought to the forefront of our recommendations for this up and coming season. Prevention is as easy as applying a topical solution or giving a single pill once a month. I urge all pet owners to try and stay ahead of the curve and start prevention before an active infestation has been allowed to become established in our pet’s daily living environments. This will save you money, time and effort in the long run. Please contact your local veterinarian if you have any questions regarding flea and tick prevention protocols. And that is the dirt, on fleas and ticks.