Think fleas vanish when summer ends? Think again. Your pup can absolutely pick up these pesky hitchhikers 365 days a year, whether it’s snowy in Minnesota or rainy in London. Modern central heating turns homes into cozy flea incubators – eggs hidden in carpets or sofa cracks hatch year-round, while adult fleas hitch rides indoors on shoes or other pets. That “winter break” myth? Bust it now.
Here’s your battle plan: Consistent monthly flea prevention is non-negotiable. Vet-prescribed topicals (like Revolution Plus®) or chewables (NexGard®) disrupt the flea life cycle better than old-school collars. Wash pet bedding weekly in hot water (130°F+ kills larvae) and vacuum carpets twice weekly – immediately tossing the bag outside. Spot-treat homes with pet-safe sprays containing IGR (Insect Growth Regulator) to stop eggs maturing. For apartment dwellers: Charlie the Dachshund in Chicago caught fleas in January from his building’s shared elevator carpet – treating his unit and notifying management broke the cycle.
Responsible flea control ties directly to legal and community obligations. Keep rabies/distemper vaccines current – fleas transmit tapeworms and Bartonella, compounding health risks. Always carry waste bags; flea eggs thrive in soil where infected dogs defecate. If hiring exterminators, demand EPA-certified, pet-safe treatments. In multi-unit buildings? Alert neighbors about infestations – fleas migrate under doors!
Training prevents panic. Never yell at a scratching dog – redirect with a frozen Kong™ and reward calm behavior. During neighborhood walks, avoid communal dog towel stations at parks (potential flea hotspots!). Teach “paw wipe” cues using positive reinforcement for post-walk hygiene. Leash etiquette matters: preventing your pup from brushing against stray animals reduces exposure. Remember: year-round flea risks demand vigilance, but pairing prevention with community awareness keeps everyone comfortable.
The debate over brushing your dog before or after a bath isn't just fussy—it affects their comfort and coat health. You want bath time to be stress-free, not a battle with tangles or leftover dirt. Let's sort this out, step by step.
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