The simple answer is yes—but while flea and tick activity spikes during the summers, these irritating pests can wreak havoc year-round. Fleas and ticks often pose a lower risk during the cold season.

However, they may already be in full bloom by the time spring rolls around. Not only do they impact your furry friend’s health by robbing their nutrients, but they also transmit diseases such as heartworms and Lyme disease. For this reason, protecting your pet from these pests is imperative.
 

No Off-season for Fleas

Though they may be less rife during the colder months, your pet is always at risk of contracting fleas. They are often more active during the summers due to the warm environment. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and humid weather. These conditions can vary depending on where you reside in the U.S.

Yet, they can still thrive even if the outside temperatures are unfavorable for them. If you keep your indoor temperatures within their favorable range, your pet is at risk of contracting fleas.
 

Where Are Fleas Often Found?

You can find fleas in areas where you and your furry friend spend most of your time. These include furniture, pet beds, and carpets. They can attach to people or pets moving in and out of the house. Once on your pet, they lay eggs, rapidly developing into an infestation if not addressed.
 

Protecting Your Pet Against Fleas

Always wash their beddings and regularly vacuum the furniture and floors to keep fleas at bay. Also, use veterinarian-recommended flea-prevention products in your home. Wash your pet regularly and thoroughly using these products.
 

No Off-season for Ticks

Ticks can be more resilient than fleas. Some can thrive in temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, while others can remain active all year long, regardless of temperature changes. However, they are more prevalent during the summer season.

They can transmit serious diseases to humans and pets, making air-tight protection essential. The diseases include ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, rocky mountain-spotted fever, and Lyme disease.
 

Where Are Ticks Often Found?

They are usually in areas where they can prey on live animals. These include grassy areas like your backyard, woody areas, fields, and hiking trails. They cling to lower-hanging foliage or tall blades of grass until they can attach to passing pets or animals.
 

Protecting Your Pet Against Ticks

Since ticks thrive in low-hanging bushes and long grass, ensure your foliage is always trimmed and your yard mowed. Please consult your vet on effective products that kill the pests on your pet and eradicate them from your home. Additionally, check your furry friend for ticks regularly, especially after being outdoors.

If your pet has diseases transmitted by these pests, take them to your pet doctor immediately. They may offer effective topical or oral solutions that quickly curtail the problem. While some over-the-counter medications may work, it is prudent to get prescription pest prevention treatments for your furry companion.

For more on flea and tick activeness in the summers, visit South Willamette Veterinary Clinic at our office in Creswell, Oregon. Call (541) 313-3352 today to schedule an appointment.