Managing Fleas and Ticks for Dogs of Any Age

Some states only have to worry about fleas and ticks during the warmer months, but here on Kaua’i, fleas and ticks can bug our pets all year long. Dogs can get fleas and ticks when they’re newborns, seniors, and every age in between. Here at Kaua’i North Shore Animal Clinic, we want to help you and Fido avoid these creepy crawlies. Want to know how to prevent puppy and dog fleas? Let’s take a look. 

Flea and Tick Prevention 101

If your dog is eight weeks or older, get her started on flea and tick prevention medication as soon as possible. When you bring your pup in for a wellness exam and vaccines, our veterinary team can recommend the best flea and tick prevention for your pup. 

Many preventive medications guard against fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. Others even take care of heartworm, flea, and tick prevention all in one medication. These medications are usually applied to your pet’s coat once a month, all year long.

You can also choose oral flea medications, which your dog will need to take once a month year-round.

Like the youngest pups, geriatric dogs still need flea and tick protection. They should be able to use the same preventives they used when they were younger. 

If you have any questions or concerns about dog fleas in older pets, ask our team! We’re here to help your pets thrive from their earliest days through their golden years. 

Flea Prevention for Puppies

Even though newborn puppies can get fleas and even ticks, flea and tick medications aren’t safe for dogs until they’re eight weeks old. 

If you breed dogs or have a puppy younger than eight weeks, how can you help these tiny puppies avoid flea infestations and tick bites? Your best bet is to:

• Keep any other pets in your household up-to-date on flea and tick medications
• Wash the pets’ bedding and blankets every week
• Bathe your pets every month
• Check your puppy’s fur with a pet-friendly flea comb daily to spot infestations

The sooner you notice tiny fleas or ticks on your puppy, the easier it’ll be to treat the problem. 

Treating Dog Fleas and Ticks

When they’re used exactly as directed, flea and tick preventives work incredibly well. But if your dog does get fleas, the team at Kaua’i North Shore Animal Clinic can help. We can recommend shampoos and fast-acting oral medications to help get rid of the pests on your dog. If your pup has a tick, we can safely remove it.

If your dog gets fleas or has a tick, schedule an appointment or give us a call right away. Treating your furry friend quickly means you’ll have an easier time getting rid of the pests.