Care

Protecting Your Australian Labradoodle from Ticks, Grass Seeds, Worms, and Fleas

Summer invites you and your Australian Labradoodle to spend extra time outdoors. Wonderful! But did you know that during the warmer months, your dog is more likely to pick up ticks and grass seeds? And what about fleas and worms? In this article, you’ll learn what these nuisances are, how to recognize them, and how to protect your furry friend, both in the warm months and beyond.

Ticks: Remove Them Quickly

Ticks are small parasites that suck blood and can transmit diseases like Lyme. They latch on when your Australian Labradoodle walks through grass or bushes. It's best to protect your dog before a walk with anti-tick treatments, such as a collar, spot-on treatments, or chewable tablets. Consult your vet or breeder to find out what's best for your dog. This way, he can explore worry-free. Back home? Check your dog and remove any ticks immediately with a tick remover. Wash the bite area thoroughly with soap and water. Also, watch for symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, pain, and stiffness, as these could indicate a missed tick bite.

Grass Seeds: Visit the Vet

Grass seeds, nasty little seeds, are especially common in the summer in unmowed grass. They can get stuck in your dog's coat, nose, ears, or between the toes and cause severe infections, swelling, and even organ damage. Ouch! It’s best to avoid areas with tall grass during the warm months. After every walk, check your dog’s coat and paws. Symptoms like sneezing, gagging, head shaking, or limping indicate problems. If your Australian Labradoodle has a grass seed, have it removed by the vet.

Worms: Dangerous for You Too

Worms are parasites that live in your dog’s intestines and can cause health problems, often without symptoms. Roundworms are the most common, but heartworms, lungworms, and tapeworms also pose a risk. Not only for your dog but also for you! To prevent these nasty worms, it's best to deworm your dog at least four times a year. Regular stool tests are also recommended, as deworming treatments only work on an existing infestation.

Fleas: Prevent an Infestation

Fleas are tiny, jumping insects that cause itching and irritation for your dog and can quickly infest your home. You can recognize fleas by the black specks in your dog's coat that turn red when wet. Prevent a flea infestation by regularly treating your dog with spot-on treatments, flea collars, or tablets. Already have fleas? Treat both your Australian Labradoodle and his environment. Tip: Wash bedding and blankets in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, but don’t mop, as fleas love damp places. Prefer a more natural alternative or want to avoid chemicals? You can also try garlic powder.

You can outsmart many of these pesky critters yourself, but if your dog shows symptoms, a visit to the vet is always a good idea.