Flea and Tick Prevention Options for 2021

Spring is right around the corner and along with warm weather and longer days, spring also brings insects and parasites that can cause harm to your furry friend. Flea and tick season can come as early as March in some states. These harmful pests can cause issues such as lyme disease and tapeworms. Make sure your pet is protected from parasites this year with one of these 3 flea and tick prevention options for 2021.

Oral

One of the more common options for flea and tick prevention is through an oral medication. These medications are typically prescription only and are given to dogs once monthly to protect them from harmful parasites. 

NexGard Soft Chews for Dogs

NexGard is a popular preventative used by pet parents. The beef flavored chews are easy to administer, since most pups will gobble them up willingly. They must be given every 30 days to work properly. You can purchase NexGard through your vet or buy it through an online pet pharmacy such as Chewy.

Bravecto Chews for Dogs

Bravecto is another oral flea and tick prevention. Unlike NexGard, Bravecto keeps your pet protected for 12 weeks rather than 30 days. As a result, it tends to be more expensive. Bravecto also requires a vet prescription but you can purchase it through the Chewy pharmacy.

Topical

Topical medications have long been used as a flea and tick prevention option. These medications are applied to the fur between the dogs shoulder blades and down their back. The downside to topical treatments is that they can rub off on furniture and clothing, so they’re not the safest choices for households with children.

Frontline Plus

Frontline Plus has been used and recommended by vets for decades. It’s an over the counter medication that is applied to your dogs fur every 30 days. Once applied, dogs cannot get wet for at least 48 hours. You can purchase it at most pet stores or on Chewy.

Collars and Tags

Collars and tags are very convenient flea and tick prevention options. They work by constantly releasing a small amount of medication onto the dogs body. They’re the longest lasting form of medication for dogs, as they don’t have to be replaced for 8+ months.They also tend to be significantly cheaper than oral or topical medications. 

Seresto Dog Collar

The Seresto flea and tick collar protects your dog for up to 8 months making them a convenient choice for pet parents. It’s orderless and non-greasy but it does constantly release chemicals, so it’s not a great option for houses with children. You can purchase a Seresto flea and tick collar through Chewy. 

EasyDefense Tag

The EasyDefense flea and tick tag works similarly to the collar, but is a tag that you attach to your dogs collar. The tag works for up to 12 months, making it the cheapest of the flea and tick prevention options. The EasyDefense tag can be purchased through Chewy. 

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