Warmer weather brings longer walks, beach days and garden playtime for pets. Unfortunately, spring and summer also mark the peak season for fleas and ticks.
These parasites thrive in warm conditions and can quickly turn outdoor fun into an uncomfortable problem for dogs and cats. Early detection and consistent prevention play a key role in protecting pets.
How to check for fleas
One of the first signs of fleas is increased scratching. Pet owners can check for fleas using a simple comb test.
Run a flea comb through your pet’s coat or brush the fur upwards near the base of the tail. Look for small jumping insects or tiny black specks that resemble ground coffee.
These specks, known as flea dirt, consist of digested blood and indicate the presence of fleas.
Understanding tick risks
Ticks behave differently from fleas. They do not jump or fly. Instead, they wait in long grass, shrubs or leaf litter and attach to animals as they pass.
Once attached, ticks feed on blood and can remain on a pet for several days if not removed.
Common places to find ticks include:
• Around the ears
• Under collars
• Between the toes
• Under the tail
• In the armpit area
Ticks often feel like small bumps on the skin and are sometimes mistaken for skin tags.
Beyond irritation, ticks can create serious health risks. Heavy infestations can cause anaemia, especially in smaller animals. Some tick species also transmit diseases.
According to veterinarian Dr Jan Moll, consulting vet for Bob Martin HealthCare Plus, routine checks remain essential.
“Ticks are more than a nuisance. Because they attach firmly and feed for several days, they can weaken pets and potentially transmit disease. Regular checking, especially after outdoor activity, and consistent monthly prevention, reduce this risk.”
Why prevention matters
Bathing pets with a flea or tick shampoo or dip removes visible parasites. These treatments help in the short term but do not provide lasting protection.
Veterinarians recommend following up with longer-acting prevention such as spot-on treatments, sprays or collars.
Dr Moll advises pet owners to stay consistent with parasite control.
“Prevention is far easier than managing a full infestation. Monthly treatment combined with cleaning bedding and living areas helps control parasite numbers throughout the year.”
The Bob Martin Clear Tick and Flea range includes powders, shampoos, sprays and spot-on treatments formulated for dogs and cats to help break the flea and tick lifecycle.
With regular checks and proper prevention, pet owners reduce the risk of parasites and keep their animals healthy through the warmer months.
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