Flea and tick season: what to watch for and how to protect your dog

As spring arrives, so does flea and tick season, which in our climate typically runs from early spring to late autumn — and in milder winters can last all year round. These external parasites are not merely a nuisance; they also pose a serious health risk, which is why prevention is not a luxury but a basic part of good care.

Ticks are the most dangerous because they can spread a number of serious diseases. Lyme disease, babesiosis (canine malaria) and anaplasmosis can all enter the body through a tick bite and, left untreated, can be life-threatening. Some pathogens can also pass to humans, so protecting your dog protects the whole family's health.

After every walk, comb through and feel over your dog's coat, paying particular attention to the ears, the head and neck area, the armpits and between the legs — ticks favour these soft, warm spots. The sooner you remove a tick, the lower the risk of infection, because the transfer of pathogens usually takes several hours.

If you find a tick, do not panic. Using tick tweezers or a tick hook, grip it as close to the skin as possible and pull it out with a steady, slightly twisting motion. Do not smother it with oil, nail varnish or alcohol — these suffocate the parasite, which may then regurgitate more pathogens into the wound. Disinfect the site of the bite and keep an eye on it over the following days: if it becomes inflamed, or your dog turns listless or feverish, see your vet.

Fleas less often cause immediate danger to life, but they can trigger intense itching, skin inflammation and allergic reactions, and can even spread intestinal worms. Tell-tale signs include frequent scratching, tiny black specks on the skin (flea dirt) and restlessness. Fleas can also multiply inside the home, so in the event of an infestation the environment must be treated too.

Prevention is the most effective defence. Spot-on (drop-on) treatments, tablets and collars are all available, with varying durations of protection. It is important to match the product to your dog's weight and age, to start protection at the beginning of the season, and to maintain it continuously without gaps — even a single missed month can be enough for an infection to take hold.

Always consult your vet when choosing the right product, since your dog's weight, age, state of health and lifestyle all influence the decision. Extra caution is needed with puppies and with pregnant or nursing bitches.

With the MEDOX app you can find the nearest vet and veterinary pharmacy with a single tap, and you can also set a reminder for the next worming or tick treatment so it is never missed. Try MEDOX — this way your dog's health is always within easy reach.