What is the best thing to do for ticks and fleas on your dog?

Prevention

* Use tick and flea prevention medication. There are many different types of tick and flea prevention medications available, so talk to your veterinarian about which one is right for your dog. Some medications are applied topically, while others are given orally.

* Keep your yard clean. Remove any leaves, debris, or tall grass from your yard, as these areas can be breeding grounds for ticks and fleas.

* Avoid areas with ticks and fleas. If you know there are areas in your neighborhood that are known for having ticks and fleas, avoid walking your dog in those areas.

* Check your dog for ticks and fleas regularly. Especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas. If you find any ticks or fleas, remove them immediately.

Removal

If you find a tick on your dog, do not panic. Ticks can be easily removed with a pair of tweezers.

* Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.

* Pull the tick straight out without twisting or jerking.

* Clean the area with soap and water.

If you find a flea on your dog, you can kill it by:

* Dipping it in rubbing alcohol.

* Combing it out with a flea comb.

* Using a flea shampoo.

If your dog has a lot of fleas, you may need to treat your home for fleas as well. This can be done with a flea bomb or by using a flea spray.

If you are concerned about ticks and fleas on your dog, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose the best prevention and removal methods for your dog.