What should be done if a dog has ticks and fleas? - briefly
Immediately remove attached ticks with fine‑point tweezers, then apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment and schedule a vet visit to confirm eradication and prevent reinfestation.
What should be done if a dog has ticks and fleas? - in detail
If a canine is found with ticks and fleas, immediate action is required to protect the animal’s health and prevent spread to the household.
First, isolate the dog in a clean, well‑ventilated area. Examine the coat closely; use a fine‑toothed comb to locate all parasites. Remove each tick with tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool, grasping the head as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight upward. Discard the specimens in a sealed container for proper disposal.
Next, administer a topical or oral ectoparasiticide approved for both ticks and fleas. Follow the product label precisely, observing the recommended dosage based on the dog’s weight. For severe infestations, a veterinarian‑prescribed medication may be necessary, potentially including a short course of oral ivermectin or a prescription‑only spot‑on treatment.
After treatment, clean the environment to eliminate lingering eggs and larvae:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and flooring thoroughly; discard or empty the vacuum bag immediately.
- Apply an environmental spray or fogger designed for flea and tick control, covering cracks, baseboards, and pet‑frequented zones.
- Treat the yard with a safe insecticide, focusing on shaded, moist areas where ticks thrive.
Preventive measures sustain long‑term protection:
- Maintain a regular schedule of monthly preventive products, rotating classes of active ingredients to avoid resistance.
- Conduct routine grooming sessions, using a flea comb at least once weekly.
- Keep grass trimmed and remove leaf litter to reduce tick habitats.
- Inspect the dog after outdoor excursions, especially in wooded or grassy regions.
Monitor the dog for signs of irritation, anemia, or disease transmission (e.g., Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis). If any abnormal symptoms appear, seek veterinary evaluation promptly. Continuous vigilance and combined animal‑ and environment‑focused treatment ensure effective eradication and minimize future infestations.