Ticks and fleas aren't just itchy — in India they spread serious illnesses like tick fever (babesiosis and ehrlichiosis), which can be life-threatening. The monsoon and humid months are peak season, so prevention and regular checks matter year-round but especially then.
Your vet can recommend a tick-and-flea preventive suited to your dog's weight, age and the local tick load — these come as spot-ons, oral tablets and collars. Use only vet-recommended products at the correct dose; never use cattle or generic pesticides on pets, which can be toxic. Keep your home and your dog's bedding clean and dry, and wash bedding regularly during monsoon.
Run your fingers slowly through the coat a few times a week, paying attention to ears, between toes, the neck, armpits and around the tail — ticks hide where it's warm and hard to reach. If you find one, ask your vet about safe removal; squeezing or burning a tick can make things worse. A single missed tick can transmit disease, so consistency beats intensity.
Tick fever can appear days or weeks after a bite. Watch for lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, pale gums, or dark urine, and see a vet promptly if you notice them — early treatment makes a big difference. If your dog has a heavy infestation, get veterinary help rather than relying on home sprays alone.
Warmth and humidity let ticks and fleas breed rapidly, so infestations and tick-borne illnesses spike in the monsoon and the humid months around it.
Tick fever refers to tick-borne diseases like babesiosis and ehrlichiosis. They can be serious, so see a vet quickly if your dog is lethargic, off food or has pale gums after possible tick exposure.
A few times a week year-round, and ideally after every walk during monsoon — checking ears, toes, neck and tail where ticks hide.
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General guidance only — not a substitute for veterinary advice. For any emergency, contact your nearest 24/7 vet.
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