Tips for fleas and ticks

Spring is around the corner, and with it comes longer days, brighter sunshine, rising temperatures, and… fleas and ticks. (You can’t win ‘em all!). Fleas and ticks thrive in the warmer weather, in tall grass and wooded areas. You may also find them in your backyard—raccoons, opossums, deer, and even your neighbour's dogs or cats can bring fleas and ticks to your property.

Fleas
Fleas are very active insects; they feed on blood from animals and people. They jump onto passing animals and burrow down into the fur to the skin, where they stay well hidden while biting and ingesting blood. It is as irritating as it sounds—to animals and to humans as well. Flea bites can cause severe itching and inflammation.

Ticks

Get in the habit of performing a thorough tick check when you and your pet(s) come inside. Take a closer look at any unusual bumps; they may actually be ticks engorged with your pet's blood. It can take up to 24 hours or longer for attached ticks to transmit diseases to your pet, so removing them as soon as possible is essential for your furry friend's health. Don't forget to check your pet's paws and ears, too.

HBSPCA can help you to prevent fleas and ticks on your pets before they become a problem. Find Advantage for cats and dogs and Advantix for dogs available for purchase in our adoption centre!

Learn more about our pet health services.

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