Tick Season is Coming: Protect the Dog and the Family

Spring is here and, with it, the seasonal problems of ticks, fleas and dog shedding.

“Health officials are predicting a large volume of ticks this spring because of the mild winter, so it’s important for pet parents to get ahead of the issue,” says Traci Simo, head of grooming for Wilton-based Canine Company.

She recommends a bi-weekly grooming routine to keep both parasites and shedding under control.

1. Start with a thorough brushing – preferably on a deck or patio so parasites are left outdoors. “As you work, feel for any bumps on your dog’s skin that might be ticks and carefully remove them. Also look for small fast-moving dark specks, a sign of fleas. If you find them, contact your groomer or veterinarian.”

2. Next, bathe your dog, massaging the shampoo into his coat. Use warm, not hot, water. Follow with a conditioner, and rinse thoroughly. While the coat is wet, continue to examine for parasites.

3. As the dog’s coat is drying, comb and brush again to remove hair that was loosened during bathing, watching again for signs of fleas or ticks.

4. Once the coat has dried completely, apply an effective flea and tick treatment like Frontline or Sentry Natural Defense, following label instructions. Treatments should be repeated monthly to prevent flea infestations, Lyme disease and other parasite-born illnesses.

“Frequent grooming will help keep the family dog healthy, comfortable and nice to be near, says Simo “but to be effective, you must repeat the routine every couple of weeks. For people who don’t want to handle a wet, shedding dog or deal with parasites, our Mobile Pet Spa is a great option.”

Canine Company’s Mobile Pet Spa provides full-service grooming in the client’s driveway, by appointment seven days a week across Middlesex and Norfolk counties. Other services include Invisible Fence® brand pet containment systems and Manners dog obedience training. For information, visit www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-DOGS (3647).