Ticks and fleas: please take them seriously
You may already have noticed it: in spring, ticks and fleas are back. A quick daily check after a walk often helps more than many people realise and gives you more peace of mind in everyday life.
In spring, we regularly see that many pet owners underestimate the issue of ticks and fleas, even though the season has already begun.
Anyone walking their dog in the woods, in the park, along the Rhine or through taller grass can quickly come into contact with ticks. Fleas are often only noticed later, as they are not always spotted immediately.
These and other parasites are not just a nuisance. They can irritate the skin, cause itching and, in the case of ticks, transmit serious diseases. Fleas are also considered potential carriers of tapeworms. That is why now is a good time to take preventive action.
In everyday life, routine is especially helpful: after a walk, do a quick check of the head, neck, ears, armpits, between the toes and less hairy areas. If you check your pet daily, you will spot ticks earlier and are also more likely to notice if the skin is irritated or if your pet is scratching in an unusual way.
If you find a tick, it should be removed calmly and as close to the skin as possible using tick tweezers or a tick hook. Do not squeeze it, do not use home remedies and do not spend too long trying. If parts of the tick remain in the skin, the area becomes inflamed, your pet is in pain or you do not feel confident removing it yourself, we will be happy to take a look at it in the practice. We are also happy to show you how to use tick tweezers correctly.
When it comes to preventive protection, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your pet’s age, coat, outdoor access, walking routes and individual sensitivity all play a role. That is why we advise you personally during your appointment, so that the protection fits both your pet and your everyday life. Together, we will find something that is truly suitable for your pet.
Please feel free to ask us about tick protection and parasite prevention at your next appointment.
