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It's time to take steps to protect pets from fleas and ticks

Spring has started again and that also means that it is time for the flea and tick season again. If you have pets, it is wise to act now to protect him or her from tick and flea borne diseases. What can you do about this? You can read it here!

Regular use of a parasite control product is essential. If you haven't treated your pet for this all year round, don't wait to get started. Prevention is the best way to keep pets healthy.

Another smart way to control and manage parasites is with a twice-weekly grooming. Fleas and ticks are easier to spot when you brush or bathe your pet. Start with a thorough brushing - preferably on the balcony or in the garden, so that parasites stay outside. While you're at it, feel for any bumps on your dog's skin that may be ticks and gently remove them with a tick remover. Clean the area with an antiseptic. If you see small, fast-moving dark spots, your pet has fleas and may need the professional help of a groomer or vet. In addition to flea treatment for your dog, you should also thoroughly clean the carpet, couches, bedding, baskets, etc. that your dog has used. It may take several treatments for both your dog and your home to get rid of all the eggs and larvae.

Then bathe the dog with warm, not hot, water. It's often easier to spot these parasites while the coat is wet, so it's good to re-examine for signs of fleas or ticks. Once the coat has completely dried, apply a flea and tick control product, according to the instructions. Treatments should be repeated monthly to prevent flea infestations, Lyme disease and other parasite-born diseases.

Regular grooming will keep you from dealing with parasite issues, but to be effective, you'll need to repeat the routine regularly.