With summer just around the corner, it’s time for pet owners to start back up on their flea prevention routine. For those who live in places that are warm year-round, like Florida or California, it is essential to keep up this regimen all year. According to AKC, here in Indiana, flea and tick season begins in March and doesn’t end until December. Although your pet is really always at risk of getting fleas or ticks, when it’s warm these parasites simply become more active. Below is a chart for when fleas and ticks are most active in each state. 

It is recommended that you keep your pet on preventatives all year long for the best defense. There are various methods of protection including: flea collars, oral medications, and topical treatments. Consult with your vet for more information on which method is best for your pet. 

If you’re going to an area that is more prone to fleas and ticks, like wooded areas, dog parks, or camp sites, you can double up your pet’s protection. For example, if your dog already regularly takes medication and you know you’re about to go camping, you can put a flea collar on them for double the protection. Always do your research and consult with your vet before adding any new preventatives. What may be right for one pet could be unsafe for yours and combining medications should only be done under veterinary guidance. 

Both fleas and ticks can carry diseases, which is why it is especially important for us to be on top of our pet’s prevention routine. During spring and summer more people and their pets are out and about which inevitably ups the risk involved. Contact your vet today to prepare your pet for the warmer months to come. That way you and your pet can have a carefree, fun-filled summer, that’s full of adventure!