Spring Parasite Season: Fleas, Ticks and Worms Wake Up Hungry

The spring wake-up

Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes ramp up as temperatures climb, and worm transmission follows. If prevention lapsed over winter, spring is when it shows — and the pests are laying groundwork before you see the first flea.

Restart before the rush

Get every pet in the home back on vet-recommended flea/tick prevention before peak season, resume regional heartworm and worming schedules, and remember indoor cats aren't exempt — fleas commute on dogs, clothes and through screens.

Yard and home

Mow, clear leaf litter and trim brush (tick habitat), discourage wildlife buffet lines (secure trash, no outdoor food bowls), and hot-wash pet bedding. After walks in grass and bush, run tick checks: ears, armpits, groin, between toes.

The spring vet visit

Annual checkups often align here for a reason: parasite screening (stool sample), regional disease tests, and a prevention plan matched to this year's local risk. One spring appointment quietly prevents the whole summer's problems.