One flea hitching a ride home on your dog’s coat can turn a calm evening into weeks of scratching, restless nights, and a living room nobody feels comfortable in. Ticks are quieter, slipping onto pets during a hike or a backyard romp and staying unnoticed until a lump or a worried scratch gives them away. The good news is that a steady prevention plan can help keep these parasites from taking hold in the first place.
At Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness, our veterinary team treats fleas, ticks, and parasites as part of our approach to preventative care for dogs and cats in Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Citrus Heights, and surrounding areas. Our doctors take time to learn how your pet lives, so the plan we recommend fits your household.
What Fleas, Ticks, and Parasites Can Do to Your Pet
Flea bites can irritate your pet’s skin, and pets with flea allergy dermatitis may develop significant itching and inflammation from just a few bites. Fleas can also spread throughout your home, laying eggs that end up in carpets, bedding, and furniture. Once an infestation develops, treating your pet alone may not be enough to eliminate it.
Ticks bring different concerns. In addition to irritating the skin, some species can transmit infections such as Lyme and anaplasmosis. Pets can also pick up intestinal parasites from contaminated soil, feces, or other environmental sources, and some of these parasites can affect people, too. Puppies can be particularly vulnerable, making prevention and appropriate testing important parts of puppy care.
Why Year-Round Parasite Prevention Matters
It’s tempting to think fleas and ticks are only a concern during the summer, but they can remain active during cooler months. The Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends year-round tick control for dogs and cats to help reduce exposure to ticks and the infections they may carry.
Your pet’s annual checkup is a good opportunity to review parasite prevention. Depending on your pet’s needs, our doctors may recommend an oral medication or topical treatment, and they’ll consider where your pet spends time and whether parasite screening or other testing is appropriate.
Signs Your Pet May Have Parasites
Often, the first clue is a change in your pet’s skin, behavior, or bathroom habits. Keep an eye out for the following:
- Frequent scratching: More licking, biting, or scratching than usual, particularly around the tail, belly, or ears
- Skin irritation: Redness, scabs, or patches of missing fur that may develop from bites or allergic reactions
- Visible fleas or ticks: Small insects moving through the fur, dark specks of flea dirt, or ticks attached to the skin
- Unusual tiredness: Low energy or pale gums, which can sometimes occur with severe parasite infestations
- Digestive problems: Diarrhea, scooting, or worms visible in your pet’s stool
These symptoms don’t necessarily mean parasites are responsible. Allergies, skin infections, and other health conditions can cause similar problems, so it’s worth having our doctors examine your pet rather than guessing at the cause. If your pet becomes unusually weak or seems suddenly ill, contact our urgent care team promptly.
Everyday Habits That Support Parasite Protection
Preventive medications do much of the work, but a few habits at home can help you spot problems early and reduce your pet’s exposure.
Check Your Pet After Spending Time Outside
After a walk, a trip to the park, or some time in the backyard, take a moment to check your pet’s coat for ticks. Pay particular attention to areas that are harder to spot, such as around the ears, under the legs, and between the toes. Part the fur as you go, especially if your pet has a thick coat.
How to Safely Remove a Tick
If you find a tick attached to your pet, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure rather than twisting or jerking it. Avoid squeezing the tick’s body, and clean the area after removal. If you have trouble removing it, notice irritation around the bite, or your pet starts acting unusually, call our office.
Only Use Prevention Made for Your Pet
Not all flea and tick products are safe for every pet. Some ingredients used in dog treatments can be dangerous for cats, so check the label and talk with our doctors before trying something new. Even indoor cats can encounter parasites brought inside by other pets or people, which is why preventive care for cats is worth discussing.
Build Your Pet’s Parasite Protection Plan With Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness
Choosing the right prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. At Stonebridge Veterinary Wellness, we’re a family-owned, local practice where our doctors take the time to get to know your pet and recommend protection based on individual needs.
If you’ve noticed your pet scratching more than usual, found a tick, or want to make sure they’re protected year-round, contact our team. We’d love to help you keep your pet healthy and comfortable.
