Fleas and ticks are nasty parasites that feed on the blood of your furry friend and can ruin their health. This is why almost all pet owners try various flea and tick prevention methods to keep these insects away from their pets. If you, too, have tried a preventive measure, but it doesn’t seem to be working, it’s likely because you’re committing some of these common mistakes many other pet owners also make.

Not consulting with your vet
It’s true that you can find flea and tick prevention methods online, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consult with your vet. Many flea repellents sold online are cheap, can cause adverse side effects, or simply don’t work. So, speak with your vet to find something effective, harmless, and suitable for your pet’s unique needs.

Not treating your pet in winter
Many pet parents incorrectly assume that flea and tick prevention is only for warmer months. Although fleas and ticks are less active in cooler months, they’re not completely gone. They may still be around, laying eggs on your pet’s body and furnishings in your house. So, it is important to treat your pets year round.

Being irregular with the dose
You may be giving your pet the most effective flea and tick prevention option, but if you’re not regular, it likely wouldn’t work. Since many treatments need to be administered once a month or several weeks, pet owners often miss the dose. To avoid this, consider putting reminders on your home calendar or mobile device.

Trying different flea treatment options
It can take several weeks for a flea and tick treatment to work. So, avoid buying a new product every month if you don’t see results. Also, if you have found the right treatment that works well on your pet, don’t switch to any other product simply because it is available for cheap.

Not giving proper dosage
Dosage for pets usually depends on their size. If you give less than the recommended dosage, the flea and tick treatment will be ineffective. On the other hand, overdosing may cause severe side effects and health complications. So, make sure to strictly follow the dosing instructions.

Not treating your pet because they stay indoors
Fleas and ticks can get on your pet even if they stay indoors all the time. This is because the pesky insects latch onto the bodies and clothes of humans, who carry them indoors and to their pets.