Fleas, Ticks & Heartworm – Oh My!

Lakeside Animal Hospital
A dog is standing on its hind legs with its tongue out.

Tips To Keep Your Pet Safe from Fleas, Ticks and Heartworm this Summer and Beyond

As the summer sizzles on, it’s just as important to keep your pet healthy as it is to take care of yourself. Record heat and consistent rain continues to torch and saturate South Florida this summer, creating the perfect environment for fleas and ticks and posing an increasing risk for our pets.

It’s important as a pet owner to stay vigilant and monitor your pet’s health and behavior. Check your pet for tick and flea bites regularly and monitor their behavior for any indication that they may be feeling under the weather. 

Here are a few easy ways to keep your pet safe from these pesky insects and prevent heartworm:

  • Use Flea and Tick Control Products: 
    • Using flea and tick control products on your pets can make all the difference in providing much-needed protection. Having topical treatments, oral medications, or collars specifically designed to repel or kill fleas and ticks in your pet’s first aid kit can all be helpful in keeping these pesky pests at bay.

  • Keep Your Yard Clean: 
    • Mosquitoes, fleas and ticks thrive in tall grass and cluttered areas. Keep your yard well-maintained by regularly mowing the grass, removing debris and trimming shrubs. Consider using pet-safe yard sprays or treatments to repel mosquitoes and other pests.

  • Regularly Check for Fleas and Ticks: 
    • Conduct routine checks for fleas and ticks on your pets, especially after spending time outdoors. Remove any ticks promptly using tweezers or tick removal tools and consult your veterinarian if you notice an infestation.

  • Administer Heartworm Preventives: 
    • Prevention is key when it comes to heartworm disease. Thankfully, there are several preventative measures that pet owners can take to protect their pets from heartworm disease. Give your pet monthly heartworm preventive medications year-round, as your veterinarian recommends. These medications effectively kill immature larvae transmitted by mosquitoes before they can develop into adult worms and prevent heartworm disease. They’re safe, effective and easy to administer, making them a must-have for any responsible pet owner.

If you believe your dog is suffering from fleas, ticks or heartworm, please schedule an appointment with our Lakeside Animal Hospital team today. We can be reached by calling or texting us at 954-474-8808.

Labrador about to get a vaccine
by Jennifer Frione, DVM 11 June 2026
Do dogs really need a full physical exam every year just to get vaccinated? A Plantation veterinarian explains why the exam matters more than the shot.
Blog cover image for pet wellness exam article
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 9 June 2026
What does a routine wellness exam actually include — and do pets really need one every year? Dr. Frione answers the questions Plantation pet owners ask most.
Flat-lay editorial image with dog collar, calendar, and stethoscope representing senior dog wellness
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 4 June 2026
How often do senior dogs really need vet visits? A Plantation veterinarian explains why twice-yearly exams matter for dogs over 7 and what they catch.
senior golden retriever photograph
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 2 June 2026
Dogs over 7 need more than annual checkups. Dr. Frione explains what changes in senior pet care and what Plantation families should watch for year-round.
Comparison between a regular salon vs. vet supervised grooming
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 28 May 2026
How much more does vet-supervised dog grooming cost vs. a regular salon and is it worth it? A Plantation veterinarian breaks it down honestly.
grooming supplies
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 26 May 2026
Lakeside Animal Hospital offers vet-supervised dog grooming in Plantation, FL. Learn what sets medical grooming apart and why it matters for your pet's safety.
Person showing the client the costs of dental care
by By: Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 21 May 2026
What does a dog teeth cleaning cost in Florida and what drives the price up? A Plantation veterinarian breaks down every line item honestly.
dog getting teeth cleaned by vet in Plantation
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 19 May 2026
Everything Plantation pet owners need to know about professional teeth cleaning for dogs and cats: cost, anesthesia, and what to expect. Dr. Frione explains.
Veterinarians for aggressive dog breeds
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 1 May 2026
Reactive or aggressive dog? Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation uses low-stress handling protocols. Book with confidence. AAHA accredited.
Teeth cleaning for dogs in Plantation, Florida.
by Dr. Jennifer Frione, DVM 24 April 2026
What does a pet dental cleaning cost in Plantation, FL? Dr. Frione breaks down what's included, what affects price, and what to expect before you book.