As summer heats up and families spend more time outdoors, local veterinarians are warning pet owners to stay vigilant during peak flea and tick season.
Dr. Erica Miller of Apple Lane Animal Hospital says ticks, fleas and even mosquitoes have been particularly aggressive this year, thanks to a wetter-than-usual spring. “We’re definitely in the middle of it,” Miller said. “Mosquitoes are terrible right now, and we’re seeing quite a bit of fleas in the clinic too.”
Miller recommends that pet owners use veterinarian-approved flea, tick, and heartworm medications rather than relying on over-the-counter or online products. “There are so many counterfeits out there,” she said. “If something goes wrong, manufacturers back our prescriptions with support and even reimbursement for treatments. That’s not something you get when you buy cheap off the shelf.”
She emphasized the importance of checking expiration dates on flea and tick products and warned against using dog-specific treatments on cats, which can be toxic.
The veterinarian also highlighted the health risks ticks pose to pets in Kansas. While Lyme disease is rare locally, other tick-borne illnesses, such as Ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, are more prevalent. Ehrlichiosis, a red blood cell parasite, can cause anemia, lameness, and lethargy in pets.
Miller advised removing ticks quickly, using tools like tweezers and rubbing alcohol. “If I see one on a dog, I pull it off immediately. I don’t want to give it a chance,” she said.
Pet owners can also explore natural repellents such as rose geranium or eucalyptus, but should always consult their vet to find the most effective and safe combination of treatments.