Summer Adventures Without the Itch: Keeping Your Dog Flea & Tick-Free

Prescription flea and tick prevention offers reliable protection, giving you peace of mind year-round.

Summer is the perfect season for adventures with your furry best friend. From scenic local trails to peaceful trips up north, there’s so much to explore together. While nature is one of the best parts of summer, it also brings some unwelcome guests—fleas and ticks.

These pesky parasites can be a year-round concern, but they become especially active during the warmer months. Fleas and ticks aren’t just annoying; they can also pose serious health risks to your dog. The good news? With the right prevention and care, you can keep your dog protected and enjoying summer to the fullest.

Here are a few simple and effective tips to help keep your dog flea- and tick-free all season long.

1. Prevention Is Key

The best defense against fleas and ticks is prevention. Treating an infestation after it starts can be stressful and messy—not to mention the potential diseases these parasites can carry.

Your veterinarian is your best resource for flea and tick prevention. Prescription preventatives are safe, effective, and designed to protect your dog before a problem begins. There are many options available, including collars, topical treatments, and oral medications. Because every dog is different, we recommend speaking with your vet to find the option that works best for your pet’s lifestyle and health needs.

2. Perform Regular Tick & Flea Checks

Even with prevention, it’s important to regularly check your dog’s coat for fleas and ticks—especially after walks or hikes in wooded or grassy areas. Ticks love tall grass, bushes, and shaded trails, making outdoor adventures a common place for exposure.

Take a few minutes to run your hands through your dog’s fur, paying close attention to areas like the ears, neck, belly, and between the toes. If you do find a flea or tick, remove it as soon as possible. Flea and tick shampoos or removers can be helpful tools for safely and thoroughly cleaning your dog.

3. Keep Your Home Clean

Fleas and ticks don’t just stay outdoors—they can make themselves at home inside, too. Dog beds, carpets, and furniture can harbor pests if not cleaned regularly.

Wash your dog’s bedding often and vacuum areas where your dog spends the most time. Keeping your home clean is an important step in preventing fleas and ticks from becoming a bigger problem.

Enjoy a Worry-Free Summer

By staying proactive with prevention, regular checks, and a clean environment, you can greatly reduce the risk of fleas and ticks. That means more time enjoying summer adventures and less time worrying about itchy, unwanted critters.

If you have questions about flea and tick prevention, visit Animal Medical Center and talk with our amazing team. We’re here to help keep your pets healthy and happy all year long.

We proudly serve pets in Appleton, Menasha, Neenah, Grand Chute, and surrounding areas. Call us at 920-749-1717 or visit us at Animal Medical Center of Appleton.

Here’s to a safe, fun, and itch-free summer for you and your dog!