Grooming your dog is more than just keeping them clean and looking good—it’s also a crucial time to check for common parasites like fleas and ticks. These tiny pests can cause serious discomfort and health problems for your furry friend, making early detection essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to spot fleas and ticks during grooming and how to prevent and deal with an infestation.
Why Checking for Fleas and Ticks is Important
Fleas and ticks are not just annoying; they pose significant health risks to dogs. Fleas can cause intense itching, skin infections, and even anaemia in severe infestations. They are also known carriers of tapeworms. Ticks, on the other hand, can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Regular grooming sessions offer the perfect opportunity to detect these pests early before they cause major health issues.
How to Check for Fleas and Ticks During Grooming
1. Use a Fine-Tooth Flea Comb
A flea comb is one of the best tools for spotting fleas and their droppings (also called flea dirt). Run the comb through your dog’s fur, especially in areas where fleas like to hide—behind the ears, under the armpits, around the tail, and along the belly. If you see tiny black specks that turn reddish-brown when placed on a damp tissue, that’s flea dirt.
2. Inspect Your Dog’s Skin and Fur
While brushing or bathing your dog, part their fur to examine the skin closely. Look for small, fast-moving brown insects (fleas) or small, dark, oval-shaped bumps (ticks). Fleas tend to move quickly, while ticks stay attached to the skin and grow in size as they feed.
3. Check Warm and Hidden Areas
Fleas and ticks love warm, dark places, so pay extra attention to areas such as:
- Behind the ears
- Under the collar
- Between the toes
- Around the tail and groin area
- Under the legs, are the places where pests are most likely to hide and feed without immediate detection.
4. Look for Signs of Flea Bites
Flea bites appear as small, red, raised bumps, often in clusters. Dogs that are allergic to flea saliva may develop severe itching, redness, and even hair loss. If you notice excessive scratching, biting, or restlessness, your dog might be dealing with fleas.
5. Examine for Tick Bites and Embedded Ticks
Ticks can be trickier to find because they attach themselves to the skin and feed on blood. Unlike fleas, they don’t move around quickly. When checking your dog, gently feel for small lumps or swollen areas. If you find a tick, do not attempt to pull it off with your fingers—use tweezers or a tick remover tool to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and remove it in one steady motion.
What to Do If You Find Fleas or Ticks
If you spot fleas or ticks on your dog, take action immediately:
- For fleas: Give your dog a flea bath using a vet-approved flea shampoo and use a flea comb to remove any remaining pests. Follow up with a flea treatment recommended by your veterinarian.
- For ticks: Remove ticks carefully using tweezers or a tick-removal tool. After removing the tick, clean the area with antiseptic and monitor your dog for any signs of infection or illness.
- Wash bedding and surroundings: Fleas can lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and furniture. Wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum your home thoroughly.
- Use preventive treatments: Monthly flea and tick preventatives (oral or topical) are the best way to keep these parasites at bay. Consult your vet for the best options for your dog.
Preventing Fleas and Ticks
Prevention is key to avoiding flea and tick infestations. Here are some steps you can take:
- Regular grooming: Routine brushing and bathing help keep fleas and ticks away while allowing early detection.
- Use flea and tick preventatives: Choose from spot-on treatments, collars, sprays, or oral medications.
- Maintain a clean environment: Wash your pet’s bedding regularly, vacuum your home frequently, and treat your yard if necessary.
- Check your dog after outdoor activities: If your dog spends time in grassy or wooded areas, inspect them for ticks after every outing.
Crazy Pets: The Best Dog Grooming Service in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain
Keeping your dog free from fleas and ticks requires regular grooming and thorough inspections. If you want professional help to ensure your dog’s hygiene and health, Crazy Pets is the best dog grooming service in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Our expert groomers provide a complete check-up for fleas, ticks, and skin conditions while making your pet look and feel their best. Book an appointment with us today and give your dog the care they deserve!
