How to check your dog for fleas and ticks

Fleas are ruthless parasites that prey on your pet causing them a host of problems. Their presence is most noticeable as the weather gets warmer and is at its peak during summer. However, spotting them is never easy. If you notice your pet constantly scratching himself and shaking his head, inspect his fur for fleas by making him lie on his back and checking the areas where they are most likely to be; the armpits, groin area, the ears and even the paws.

Take immediate measures if you notice the following signs in your pet:

• Presence of tick at home: If you notice ticks in your home especially on the bedding, walls, floor and carpets your dog has most probably brought it and is most likely to be afflicted with it. So inspect your dog closely.   
• If your dog has fever: If your dog has been bitten by ticks he may soon be running a temperature. This could also be a sign of weakness or other medical conditions but a dog with fever must be checked for ticks.
• Presence of scabs: Dogs that constantly lick or chew at the bitten areas that form scabs need to checked for fleas.
• Constantly shaking the head: If you notice your dog shaking their head then ticks may be slowly crawling and burrowed in his ear canal. If he is constantly shaking his head then use a flashlight to check his ears for fleas.
• Bumps in the body: If you notice bumps while patting your pet then it is a clear sign of the presence of ticks in their body. So, part the fur and take a closer look at his skin.

Once you have found the presence ticks the next step is to treat it. There are a lot of treatment options from oral medicines to spray and shampoos available in market. It is also a sensible idea to consult with your vet and take his recommendations for effective flea treatment.

Happy parenting!