Fleas, Ticks & Summer Walks: Everything Dog Owners Need to Know
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Summer is one of the best times of year for getting outdoors with your dog—but it's also peak season for fleas and ticks.
Whether you're walking through woodlands, exploring the countryside or enjoying a family holiday, knowing how to spot, prevent and manage fleas and ticks can help keep your dog comfortable all summer long.
Where Do Dogs Pick Up Fleas and Ticks?
Many owners assume fleas and ticks are only found in long grass, but they're much more widespread than you might think.
Your dog can pick them up from:
- Woodland walks
- Long grass and meadows
- Parks and playing fields
- Campsites
- Beaches and coastal paths
- Contact with other animals
- Your own garden
Warm weather encourages flea and tick activity, making summer the busiest time of year.
How to Check Your Dog for Ticks
Checking your dog only takes a minute and is one of the simplest ways to protect them.
Pay particular attention to:
- Ears
- Neck
- Under the collar
- Armpits
- Groin
- Between the toes
- Around the tail
Ticks often feel like small bumps on the skin before they're visible.
How to Remove a Tick Safely
If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible using a proper tick removal tool.
Avoid squeezing the tick or covering it with oils or petroleum jelly, as this can increase the chance of irritation.
If you're unsure how to remove a tick safely, ask your veterinary practice for advice.
Signs Your Dog May Have Fleas
Fleas don't always announce themselves immediately.
Common signs include:
- Excessive scratching
- Biting or nibbling at the skin
- Hair loss
- Red or irritated skin
- Small black specks (flea dirt) in the coat
The earlier you spot them, the easier they are to manage.
Can You Help Reduce the Risk Naturally?
Many dog owners choose to include natural support as part of their dog's seasonal routine.
Simple habits include:
- Checking your dog after every walk.
- Keeping bedding clean.
- Vacuuming regularly during flea season.
- Grooming your dog frequently.
- Supporting skin and coat health through good nutrition.
Every dog is different, so it's important to choose an approach that's right for your pet and seek veterinary advice where appropriate.
Natural Seasonal Support from Proflax
Our Proflax Flea & Tick range combines carefully selected botanicals to provide natural seasonal support for dogs.
Choose from:
- Proflax Flea & Tick Support – an easy-to-feed powder for daily use.
- Proflax Flea & Tick Support Tincture – a concentrated botanical tincture that can be added to your dog's routine.
Explore the range here:
https://proflax.co.uk/collections/fleas-and-ticks
Not sure which supplement is right for your dog?
Take our free supplement quiz.
Final Thoughts
Summer adventures should be full of happy memories—not unwanted hitchhikers.
By checking your dog regularly, removing ticks safely and supporting their overall wellbeing, you can help them enjoy every walk with confidence.