Ticks, fleas? Don’t bring them home from your walk!

What parasites can our dog pick up in nature?

When your dog dives into tall grass or plays with others at a dog park, it can easily and almost imperceptibly pick up parasites that cling to its skin or fur. These external parasites are not only a source of discomfort—they can also carry serious diseases.

In Hungary, the most common external parasites include ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, lice, and mites (such as mange mites or ear mites). These tiny creatures feed on blood and can transmit pathogens that may lead to severe, sometimes even life-threatening illnesses in dogs.

When and where are external parasites most prevalent?

External parasites are not equally active all year round. Their activity is influenced by the weather and the type of environment.

Ticks can appear as early as March and remain active until November. They thrive in wooded, shaded areas, bushy undergrowth, and tall grassy fields. Fleas may be present year-round, but they are especially active during the summer and early autumn. Mosquitoes, which are an increasing concern, reproduce near bodies of water—such as lakes, streams, and marshes—and can bite from April through October. Mites and lice are often spread from other dogs, making places like dog parks, shelters, and communal spaces hotspots for transmission.

The Impact of Climate Change: What Should Dog Owners Expect?

In recent years, many dog owners have noticed that parasite season seems to be getting longer. This is no coincidence—climate change is significantly affecting the life cycles of these pests.

Milder winters allow many parasites to survive the cold months, meaning they emerge earlier in spring and remain active well into late autumn. Additionally, new species of parasites have appeared in Hungary that previously only existed in warmer climates—such as Hyalomma ticks, which can transmit more exotic and serious diseases. The growing mosquito population is also alarming, as it has led to the rapid spread of heartworm disease, which was almost unheard of in Hungary just a few years ago.

What diseases do external parasites transmit?

Many tend to underestimate the presence of a single tick or flea, but these small parasites can cause serious health issues in dogs. In some cases, a single bite is enough to infect your pet with a dangerous illness.

• Babesiosis, one of the most well-known diseases, is transmitted by ticks. This blood parasite infection can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and jaundice.
• Lyme disease, also spread by ticks, can cause chronic joint inflammation and neurological symptoms.
• Heartworm disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, involves parasites living in the dog’s heart and lungs, often causing damage silently over time.
• Fleas cause intense itching and can trigger allergic dermatitis, while mites—such as mange or ear mites—can lead to severe skin irritations, including itching, wounds, and infections.

Protecting your dog against these threats has never been more important than it is now, in an era of changing climate and expanding parasite habitats.

How Can We Protect Our Dog?

The good news is that most parasites and the diseases they carry can be effectively prevented. It is the owner's responsibility to take proactive steps—before problems arise.

Today, there are a variety of preventive treatments available, including spot-on drops, collars, chewable tablets, which need to be administered monthly or seasonally, depending on the product.

In addition to using these, regular inspections are essential—after every walk, it’s a good idea to check your dog’s fur, especially around the neck, ears, armpits, and legs, where parasites like to hide.

Vaccinations, such as those against Lyme disease, can also provide an extra layer of protection.

And finally, don’t forget about heartworm testing—it’s recommended once a year, especially if you spend a lot of time near water or in warm, humid areas.

With vigilance and the right tools, you can keep your dog safe, healthy, and free to enjoy nature without worry.

Looking for a Natural Solution?

More and more dog owners are choosing to avoid synthetic, chemical-based treatments and are instead seeking eco-friendly, yet effective alternatives for their dog’s care and protection. One such conscious choice against external parasites is Zerokeet, a 100% plant-based, all-natural product designed to combat parasites.

Zerokeet works on multiple fronts:

• It prevents parasites from feeding.
• It disrupts their development and life cycle,
  all without being toxic to your pet. Its herbal extracts are gentle, do not cause resistance, and fully biodegrade in the environment, making it safe for both your dog and nature.

It’s also easy to use: simply spray it (after proper dilution) from a spray bottle or rub it into the coat—either on affected areas or across the whole body as a preventive measure.

Zerokeet is an ideal choice for mindful dog owners who don’t want to compromise between their pet’s health and environmental protection—because natural protection can also be safe and effective!

Fighting external parasites doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires informed attention. This way, your adventures together can remain full of joy—without bites, stings, or hidden dangers!