Living in Odessa, FL, means we get to bask in warm weather all year long. But this paradisiacal weather also creates the perfect environment for pests like fleas and ticks to thrive. These creepy crawlies can cause your furry companions a lot of discomfort, and can even lead to serious health issues. 

That’s why the team at Caring Paws Animal Hospital wants to offer tips for pet preventive care to keep fleas and ticks from harming your pawsome pals.

Why Flea and Tick Prevention Is Essential

Fleas and ticks are more than a pesky and slightly gross nuisance. Unfortunately, they can carry diseases that affect both pets and humans. 

Fleas can cause allergic reactions in humans and transmit tapeworms to your pet. Ticks can spread Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis to you and your pets alike. 

Because Odessa’s hot, muggy climate encourages year-round activity for these pests, flea and tick prevention should be a constant priority for every local pet parent.

Top Tips for Flea and Tick Prevention

Our team has rounded up our three top flea and tick prevention tips.

1. Use Preventive Medications

One of the most reliable methods of pet preventive care is using veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventives. There are plenty of options to pick from, including topical treatments, oral medications, and collars that are designed to repel or kill fleas and ticks. 

Your vet can help you figure out which product is best for your pet based on their age, weight, and health—and your family routine.

2. Keep Your Environment Clean 

Fleas and ticks usually find their way into the house after members of the household spend time outside. To minimize the risk of bringing these pests indoors, keep your yard trimmed and free of tall grass or debris where ticks love to hide. Regularly wash your pet’s bedding, vacuum your home, and use pet- and kid-safe pest control products to create a safer environment for everyone in the house.

3. Do Regular Fur and Paw Inspections

Routine paw and fur checks are important when it comes to pest prevention efforts. After outdoor adventures, especially in woodsy or grassy areas, take a close look at your pet’s fur, paws, and ears for signs of fleas or ticks. 

Early detection (and removal!) can prevent infestations and reduce the risk of pests transmitting their diseases. If you need help with flea or tick removal, reach out to your veterinarian.

Flea and Tick Season in Odessa, FL

Let’s be real: it’s always flea and tick season in Odessa, Florida. But during the extra-warm months from April through September, pets are especially susceptible to ticks and fleas. Our knowledgeable team at Caring Paws Animal Hospital can help bolster your flea and tick prevention efforts.

Call us at (813) 723‑7297 to get started!