Seasonal Flea and Tick Prevention Guide

Seasonal Flea & Tick Protection Guide Protect Your Dog All Year Long

B Y C O N T I N E N TA L K E N N E L C L U B

Why Seasonal Changes Matter Fleas and ticks aren’t just summer pests. Seasonal temperature shifts, humidity levels, and environmental changes directly impact parasite activity.

The Winter Myth: Many dog owners assume risk disappears in colder months — but that’s a costly myth.

Understanding seasonal patterns helps you: ✔

Prevent infestations

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Reduce health risks

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Protect your dog year-round

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🌿 Spring – Tick Activity Rises Why risk increases: As the frost thaws, ticks become active. They thrive in the following conditions: ✔

Warmer temperatures

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Increased moisture

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More outdoor activity for pets and wildlife

Spring Prevention Checklist: ✔

Start preventative treatments early

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Inspect after walks

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Avoid tall grass & wooded areas

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Keep yard trimmed

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☀️ Summer – Peak Season Why risk peaks: Heat and humidity create the perfect breeding ground for parasites. ✔

Ideal breeding conditions

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Increased dog exposure outdoors

What to Watch For: Scratching, Red skin or bumps, Hair loss, Visible pests.

Prevention Tips: ✔

Stay consistent with treatments

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Groom regularly

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Wash bedding weekly

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🍂 Fall – Reproduction Surge Why fall is risky: Many owners drop their guard as the weather cools, but fleas are working overtime. ✔

Fleas reproduce rapidly before winter

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Many owners stop prevention too early

Fall Prevention: ✔

Continue treatments through the frost

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Vacuum carpets frequently

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Inspect after leaf play

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❄️ Winter – Indoor Survival The myth: Fleas & ticks die in winter. Reality: While activity slows outdoors, fleas can survive and thrive indefinitely indoors where it's warm.

Winter Prevention: ✔

Continue prevention (especially in mild climates)

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Vacuum regularly to remove eggs/larvae

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Wash bedding in hot water

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Health Risks to Dogs Parasites are more than a nuisance; they carry serious health implications.

Fleas can cause: ✔

Skin infections (Hot spots)

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Allergic reactions (FAD)

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Tapeworms

Ticks can transmit: ✔

Lyme disease

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Ehrlichiosis

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Anaplasmosis

Early prevention protects long-term health and saves on veterinary costs.

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Year-Round Strategy Consistency is the key to a parasite-free home and a healthy dog.

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Follow vet-recommended prevention schedule

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Check your dog monthly (Ear to tail)

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Maintain yard & home hygiene

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Stay informed about seasonal shifts

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🐾 Ready to learn more? Want a deeper breakdown of seasonal parasite risks and how to combat them?

Read the full article here

Protect your dog. Every season. Every year.