When should tick drops be used on dogs? - briefly
Apply tick drops as soon as tick activity begins in your region, generally from early spring through late fall, and before any outdoor exposure in tick‑infested areas. Continue using them year‑round for dogs that spend extensive time in wooded or grassy environments where ticks remain active.
When should tick drops be used on dogs? - in detail
Tick‑control spot‑on products contain insecticides that spread across the skin surface, killing attached ticks and preventing new infestations. They are most effective when applied to a healthy, dry coat and allowed to dry before the animal contacts water.
Use is warranted when a dog lives or spends time in environments where ticks are active: wooded areas, tall grass, farms, or regions with known tick‑borne disease prevalence. Seasonal peaks vary by geography; in temperate zones, activity rises in spring, peaks in summer, and may resume in early autumn. Dogs that hunt, hike, or accompany owners on camping trips require protection throughout these periods.
Application should begin before the first expected tick encounter, typically 1–2 weeks prior to the start of the local tick season. Continue at the product‑specified interval, usually every 30 days, regardless of whether ticks have been observed. Reapplication after a bath, swimming, or heavy rain is necessary because the active ingredient is removed from the skin surface.
Special circumstances demand immediate use: travel to endemic areas, recent detection of ticks on the animal, or a history of tick‑borne illness in the household. Puppies may receive spot‑on treatment once they reach the minimum weight required by the label, often around 4 kg, and after the age specified (commonly 8 weeks). Pregnant or lactating females can be treated if the product is approved for those conditions.
Correct administration involves parting the hair at the base of the neck, dispensing the entire dose onto the skin, and preventing the dog from licking the area until it dries. Do not apply to broken skin or open wounds. Observe the dog for adverse reactions such as excessive salivation, vomiting, or skin irritation; discontinue use and consult a veterinarian if they occur.
Integrate spot‑on products with additional measures—regular grooming, environmental tick control, and routine veterinary checks—to maintain comprehensive protection against tick infestation and the diseases they transmit.