As temperatures begin to rise, tall grasses and brush are growing, and pest eggs begin to hatch, we all start to question our pet’s safety out in the wide green world. Your best defense against fleas and ticks is to use year round preventative care usually provided by your vet, but what are you fighting against and why are you fighting against it?
Fleas and Ticks are More Than Just Bugs
Fleas and ticks are dangerous pests for both pets and humans. They can cause itching and skin irritation and transmit disease to animals and humans, and fleas may decide to take up residence in your home.
Did you know that flea and tick season in Illinois starts in March and lasts all the way through December? These little buggers can come after your pet even after the first frost in the winter months, so it’s important to be vigilant about protecting your dog or cat year-round. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to protect you, your pet, and your home.
Other Ways of Prevention
- Collars and Spot-on Treatments: The best way to deal with fleas and ticks is to prevent your pet from getting them, and you can protect your dog or cat without using harsh or strong-smelling chemicals. Earth Animal and TropiClean offer collars and spot-on treatments that use essential oils to repel fleas and ticks.
- Shampoo: If your pet does get bitten by these pesky pets, don’t panic! You don’t have to cover your pet in chemicals. Natural flea and tick shampoos effectively kill them using essential oils. Some shampoos also temporarily repel fleas or mosquitos after use. We carry flea and tick shampoos from Skout’s Honor, Tropiclean, and Fox + Hound.
- Sprays: We also carry several brands of natural flea and tick sprays, which can be used to kill pests on your dog or cat or provide extra protection against flea, tick, and mosquito bites. They keep your pet safe and smelling great! Many of the sprays can also be used in your home or on your dog’s bedding, in the unfortunate event you have an infestation.
