Should You Protect Your Pet from Fleas and Parasites in Winter?

Cold winter temperatures cause many pet parents to start thinking differently about pet protection against fleas and parasites. It is common practice among pet owners to stop giving their pets fleas and parasite preventatives during winter. According to experts, this behavior may endanger the health of your furry friend. To better understand the issue, you may want to find out more about the lifestyle of the pesky creatures. Veterinarians from Eastshore Vet, the best veterinary clinic in Madison, try to give you the explanation and the best answer to the question—Should you protect your pets from fleas and parasites in winter.

Should You Protect Your Pet from Fleas and Parasites in Winter?

Fleas Surround Your Pet in Winter, Too‍

Even though cold winter temperatures slow down life cycles of fleas, they don’t eliminate them at all. While fleas don’t outlive freezing temperature, their eggs and cocoons may survive in your garage, basement, barn, and other places where temperatures don’t fall below 33 degrees. Not to mention that eggs and pupae may blossom indoors if you fail to extinguish them from your environment. Moreover, if you left your pet without proper protection, he will get fleas even in winter. To avoid this scenario, vacuum your carpets and furniture thoroughly, wash pet’s bed with warm water, and keep his protection medicine up to date.

Your Pet Can Get Ticks Even in Winter

‍Ticks live two to three years. During their life, they usually change three hosts. That means more risk regarding infection. Certain species can survive on snowy leaves that they use as a protection from freezing. Moreover, adult ticks need only 45 degrees to continue their lives. Because of that, walking your dog on a sunny winter day may finish with carrying ticks into your home. For that reason, stay committed to your fleas and ticks preventative schedule and check your dog’s coat after each walk, even in winter.

Parasites That Affect Your Pet All Year Long

‍Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms try to attack your pet all year long. They spread throughout areas where pet feces are present. Because of that, check your shoes and your pet’s paws whenever the both of you spend some time outside. If left untreated, parasites can harm your pet health significantly. To make things worse, they may put your health and health of your children at risk. Thus, hold onto your anti-parasitic routine and keep your pet protected throughout the year.