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Almost everything you need to know about pet care.

Dogs - Ticks and Fleas

Ticks

Ticks are blood sucking parasites that will attach themselves to any warm blooded anima,l even humans. Don't be tempted to try and physically remove a tick as they bury their jaws into the skin. If you pull a tick off there is a good chance you will leave the jaws and head behind, giving an entry point for other nasties. The treatment of ticks should where possible be prescribed by a vet, as this should be documented (especially if you intend to travel with your dog). Collars that are impregnated with acaricide are not considered to be effective treatment against these parasites.

Fleas

Fleas will bite into your dog and feed on its blood, this will cause itching and irritation that can lead to serious medical problems. You will be pleased to know there are a number of effective treatments for your dog. There are flea drops where you drop a small amount of the liquid onto the back of your dog 's neck this will kill all fleas on contact, or you can give a tablet orally that kills fleas when they bite , however, these are only suitable for puppies over four weeks old. There are also powders and sprays but we don't think these are as effective. A good tip is to keep your dog's bedding clean. Remember your dog's bed is also its flea's bed! You can use an IGR (Insect Growth Regulator) spray, available on prescription from your vet.