The Vet is In:
Fleas and Ticks, Oh My!
As the calendar moves from summer to fall and winter, we often see a surge in flea and tick populations. Eggs and immature forms of these pests wait for the right environment to complete their life cycles, and seasonal changes provide that opportunity. Failure to control them beforehand can result in illness for pets, ranging from allergic skin problems to infections such as Lyme disease, while also exposing humans to potential zoonotic diseases.
Another consequence of poor control is the “seeding” of a household with eggs and larvae. When heating season begins, indoor warmth can cause these dormant forms to hatch, unleashing a wave of hungry pests eager to mature and reproduce.
Fleas and ticks differ in their role as disease vectors. Tick-borne illnesses—Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichiosis—are widely recognized threats to humans. Fleas, however, transmit diseases such as Cat Scratch Fever, Plague, and tapeworms, which can also affect both people and pets but are often overlooked.
Why do ticks seem more abundant today? A major reason is human encroachment into their ecosystems. As we build homes and neighborhoods in what were once open fields, we bring ourselves closer to deer and mice that sustain the tick life cycle. Deer benefit from the protection of our gardens and plantings, while mice thrive on the food and shelter we provide. Those seemingly harmless mice that invade homes are, in fact, critical reservoirs for ticks and the diseases they spread.
So, what can we do? The first flea and tick products of the late 1960s and early 1970s were only marginally effective, carried high risks of adverse reactions, and quickly faced resistance. Over time, newer products have been developed that are safer, more effective, and longer lasting. While earlier treatments required monthly applications, many modern preventives now remain active for weeks to months.
To protect pets—and ourselves—the best step is establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship with a trusted professional. A veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate preventive tailored to your pet’s needs. Avoid relying on “Dr. Google,” social media, or outdated remedies, as misuse of products can cause harm.
The risks fleas and ticks pose should never be underestimated. A dog or cat suffering from flea-bite allergies can be miserable, and the toll of Lyme disease or Anaplasmosis on pets or people can be devastating. In this area of pet care, an ounce of prevention is worth far more than a pound of cure.
(Note on horses: Currently, only one approved tick-control product exists for equids. It is generally safe but only moderately effective. Some small animal products are used off-label in horses—consult your equine veterinarian before considering such options.)
By Dr. Steve Naile
New York State Humane Association Humane Review, Vol.XLVI, Fall 2025.