As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors with our furry companions, another seasonal guest also makes an appearance: tick and flea season. These tiny pests can turn a fun walk in the foothills or a backyard hangout into a frustrating — and even dangerous — experience for both you and your pet.
Why It Matters
Ticks and fleas are more than just itchy nuisances. They can carry serious diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and tapeworms. Pets with flea allergies may also suffer from painful skin irritation or secondary infections. Preventing these pests is easier (and cheaper) than treating an infestation later!
When Is Tick & Flea Season in Boise and Surrounding Areas?
Tick and flea activity usually spikes from spring through fall, but in much of the Treasure Valley — including Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Garden City, and Nampa — they can be a year-round issue, especially after mild winters. The risk tends to rise starting in April and can last into October.
How to Protect Your Pet
Here are some tips to keep your pet safe this season:
- Use Vet-Recommended Prevention: Whether it’s a topical treatment, oral medication, or flea collar, talk to your vet about the best option for your pet.
- Check After Every Walk: Especially after hikes in the Boise Foothills or walks along the Greenbelt, run your hands over your pet’s fur and check common tick hiding spots like ears, under legs, and around the neck.
- Keep It Clean: Regular bathing and grooming help spot fleas and ticks early. Our salon offers flea baths and can help identify early signs of bites or irritation.
- Yard Care Matters: Fleas and ticks thrive in overgrown grass and damp leaf litter. Keep your yard trimmed and consider pet-safe pest control treatments.
- Wash Bedding Frequently: Pet beds, blankets, and even your sofa should be washed regularly in hot water.
Signs Your Pet Might Have Fleas or Ticks
- Excessive scratching or biting
- Visible small black dots (flea dirt) in their fur
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
- Red, irritated skin or scabs
We’re Here to Help
At PetSpa Boise, we take flea and tick season seriously. Our grooming appointments include a thorough check for pests, and we can recommend gentle, pet-safe products if needed. If your pet has already picked up a few hitchhikers, let us know — we’re here to help them feel better fast.
Serving Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Garden City, and Nampa — book your spring grooming appointment today and give your pet a clean, pest-free start to the season!
