Flea and tick prevention is an important part of routine veterinary care for dogs and cats in Scarborough, Toronto, and across Ontario. Even pets that spend limited time outdoors can be exposed to parasites through grass, parks, wildlife, other animals, or travel.

At East Side Animal Hospital, we help pet owners choose safe and appropriate parasite prevention based on each pet’s species, age, weight, lifestyle, and health status.

Why Flea & Tick Prevention Matters

Fleas and ticks are more than a nuisance. They can cause discomfort, skin irritation, allergic reactions, anemia in severe infestations, and transmission of infectious diseases.

Common Signs of Fleas in Dogs and Cats

• Scratching, chewing, or licking skin
• Hair loss, especially near the tail base
• Red or irritated skin
• Small black flea dirt in the coat
• Restlessness or skin discomfort
• Visible fleas moving through the fur

Where Pets Can Pick Up Ticks

Ticks are commonly found in grassy, wooded, and brushy areas. Pets may be exposed during normal outdoor activity, including neighbourhood walks, dog parks, hiking trails, backyards, and cottage visits.

• Parks and trails
• Long grass and wooded areas
• Backyards
• Dog parks
• Cottage and camping areas
• Areas with wildlife activity

Year-Round Prevention in Ontario

Parasite risk can vary depending on weather, season, travel, and local exposure. In Ontario, ticks may become active whenever temperatures are mild enough, even outside the traditional summer season.

Your veterinarian can recommend the best prevention schedule for your pet based on lifestyle, risk, and health status.

Flea & Tick Prevention Options

There are several veterinary-approved parasite prevention options available for pets. The best choice depends on your pet’s species, age, weight, medical history, and exposure risk.

• Monthly topical prevention
• Oral flea and tick prevention for dogs
• Prescription parasite prevention plans
• Heartworm and tick-borne disease testing when recommended
• Environmental cleaning if fleas are present in the home

How to Check Your Pet for Ticks

After outdoor activity, check your pet’s body carefully. Ticks are often found in hidden areas.

• Around the ears
• Under the collar
• Between the toes
• Under the legs
• Around the face and neck
• Near the tail and groin area

When to Call a Veterinarian

Contact East Side Animal Hospital if your pet has fleas, a tick bite, skin irritation, sudden lameness, lethargy, fever, reduced appetite, or if you are unsure which prevention is safest for your pet.

We can help with flea and tick prevention, parasite testing, heartworm and tick-borne disease screening, and treatment recommendations when needed.