Springtime Flea & Tick Prevention: Protect Your Pets as the Weather Warms Up

by | Apr 4, 2025 | Blog

As spring arrives and temperatures rise, so does the activity of fleas and ticks. These pesky parasites thrive in warm, humid conditions and can pose serious health risks to both pets and their owners. Preventing infestations early in the season is key to keeping your furry friends safe and comfortable. Here’s what you need to know about flea and tick prevention this spring.

Why Spring Is Prime Time for Fleas & Ticks with warmer weather, fleas and ticks become more active, emerging from their winter hiding spots in search of hosts. They lurk in tall grass, wooded areas, and even urban environments, waiting for a chance to latch onto pets. Once inside your home, fleas can reproduce rapidly, making early prevention crucial.

The Risks of Fleas and Ticks fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can transmit serious diseases. Fleas can cause skin irritation, allergies, and even anemia in severe infestations. Ticks, on the other hand, are known carriers of diseases like Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Protecting your pet also means reducing the risk of these diseases spreading to your family.

Spring Prevention Strategies

  1. Use Vet-Recommended Preventatives – Year-round flea and tick prevention is the best defense. At Reber Ranch Veterinary Hospital, we recommend NexGard and Bravecto, two highly effective oral flea and tick preventatives. NexGard is a monthly chew, while Bravecto provides protection for up to 12 weeks per dose. Talk to your veterinarian to determine the best option for your pet.
  2. Check Your Pet Regularly – After walks or outdoor playtime, inspect your pet for fleas and ticks, paying close attention to their ears, underbelly, and between their toes.
  3. Maintain Your Yard – Keep your lawn trimmed, remove leaf litter, and create barriers between wooded areas and your yard to minimize exposure to ticks.
  4. Wash Bedding and Vacuum Frequently – Regular cleaning can help eliminate flea eggs and larvae from your home before they become a bigger problem.
  5. Schedule a Vet Visit – A spring wellness check is a great time to ensure your pet is protected with up-to-date preventatives and vaccinations.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late spring is the perfect time to take action against fleas and ticks before they become a full-blown infestation. By staying proactive with preventative treatments and keeping a close eye on your pet’s environment, you can enjoy the season without the worry of unwanted pests.

At Reber Ranch Veterinary Hospital, we offer a range of flea and tick preventatives, including NexGard and Bravecto, to keep your pets safe all year long. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss the best prevention plan for your furry family member!