Resources

Ectoparasites:
Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are prominent in Ireland and can cause serious discomfort, allergies, and disease for your pets. Effective control is essential for their health and well-being.

Fleas

  • Prevalence: Fleas are very common and can be picked up from infested environments like homes, gardens, and parks. They thrive in warmer conditions, so regular checks are essential, especially if your pet lives indoors or during spring and summer months.
  • Detection: Fleas can be hard to spot, but flea dirt is a clear sign. Comb your pet’s coat and place any debris on a wet piece of paper. If the specks dissolve into a red/brown patch, it indicates flea presence.
  • Associated Problems: Fleas can cause skin irritation, flea allergy dermatitis, and transmit tapeworms. Heavy infestations can lead to blood loss in puppies and kittens.
  • Treatment: Flea combs, collars, and shampoos are not effective long-term. Use a high-quality prescription flea control product every 4-6 weeks. Environmental controls like vacuuming, washing pet bedding, and using insecticidal sprays may also be necessary. If you see fleas, visit our clinic for advice.

Ticks

  • Prevalence: Ticks are less common than fleas but can be found in gardens, urban parks, and especially in wet, grassy rural areas.
  • Detection: Ticks are small when they attach and become more visible as they engorge with blood. Regularly examine your pet, especially after they’ve been in likely tick-infested areas.
  • Associated Problems: Ticks can cause several issues, including Lyme disease.
  • Treatment: Apply a topical tick control product monthly. Dead ticks often drop off naturally; if not, remove them gently with tweezers.
  • Travel Requirements: Pets traveling to the EU require tick treatment within 24-48 hours before traveling. Check our EU Pet Passport section or contact us for more information.