When the first cool nights arrive, it is tempting to think parasite season is over. For many parts of the country, it is not. Here are some common beliefs about ticks and fleas in fall, and what is actually going on. Your veterinarian is the best source for advice on prevention in your area.
Myth: The first frost ends tick season
Fact: Some ticks remain active in fall and even on mild winter days. Adult blacklegged ticks, sometimes called deer ticks, are known to be active in fall and can seek hosts whenever temperatures are above freezing. A single frost does not eliminate them. Leaf litter, which covers yards and trails in fall, can give ticks a sheltered place to stay.
Myth: Ticks are only a problem in the woods
Fact: Ticks can live in tall grass, brush, leaf piles and the edges of lawns, including suburban backyards. Dogs can pick them up on ordinary neighborhood walks. Checking your dog after time outdoors is a good habit wherever you live.
Myth: Fleas disappear when it gets cold
Fact: Fleas may slow down outdoors in cold weather, but a heated home can give them a comfortable place to keep going. Fleas that come inside on a pet in fall can continue their life cycle indoors. That is one reason some households notice flea problems after the heat comes on.
Myth: If I do not see parasites, my dog does not have any
Fact: Ticks can be very small, especially in early life stages, and can hide in thick coats. Fleas move quickly and may be hard to spot. Signs such as scratching, small dark specks in the fur, or skin irritation can be clues. A careful check with a fine comb helps, and your vet can check too.
How to check your dog
After walks, run your hands slowly over your dog’s body, feeling for small bumps. Pay attention to:
- Inside and around the ears
- Around the eyes and the neck, including under the collar
- Armpits, groin and between the back legs
- Between the toes
- Around the tail
Curly and long coats, like those on many doodles, can hide ticks well. Part the fur as you go. If you find a tick, remove it promptly using a tool or fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it close to the skin and pulling steadily. If you are unsure how to remove it, or the area looks irritated afterward, contact your veterinarian.
Finally, talk to your veterinarian about fall and winter prevention. Needs vary by region, lifestyle and the individual dog. Some veterinarians recommend year-round prevention, while others may suggest different schedules depending on local conditions. Do not stop or change your dog’s prevention plan without talking to your vet first. Ask what parasites are common in your area, whether tick-borne disease testing makes sense, and what to watch for.
Cooler weather is wonderful for walks. A quick tick check and a conversation with your vet keep it that way.
