Fleas and ticks are pests that can affect puppies all year round. Without the proper protection, puppies are more prone to flea and tick infestations. When puppies go outside, they are susceptible to fleas and ticks. The pests can jump on puppies, which make ideal homes for the pests. An owner can prevent flea and tick infestations by taking precautions and using products that deter the pests.
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Problems Caused by Fleas and Ticks
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Fleas and ticks cause multiple problems for puppies and owners alike. Fleas bite and can cause itching and pain. Fleabites can become infected. Ticks bury themselves into their host and feed off the host's blood. Deer ticks spread Lyme disease, a condition that causes joint inflammation, stiff neck and unusual behavior.
Preventing Fleas and Ticks
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Shampoos, sprays, dips and powders are available to help combat fleas and ticks on pets and in the home. A puppy can wear a flea collar. Veterinarians can provide both injected and oral medications as well as other products to help get rid of the pests.
Ridding the Puppy of Fleas
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One way to get rid of fleas is bathing the puppy with flea shampoo. Flea powders are available for use on pets and in the home, too. Once-a-month treatments that prevent fleas are available from veterinarians and online. Prevent fleas from re-infesting the puppy by vacuuming the home and by treating problem spots, such as the pet bed, and problematic places in the yard, such as the kennel area.
Ridding the Puppy of Ticks
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Remove a tick by grasping the tick's body as close to the puppy's skin as possible with a pair of tweezers. Using the tweezers, slowly and steadily pull out the tick. Do not twist the tick as you pull. Take care to remove the entire tick. Leaving any portion of the tick embedded in the skin can lead to complications, such as infection.
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