Keeping your dog safe during the height of fall flea season.

As a dog owner, you've probably gone above and beyond to protect your furry friend from the risk of fleas, ticks and mosquitoes this summer, but now is not the time to ease up! With fall on the way, this will be the time of year when fleas will be at their worst. According to BellaOnline, fleas thrive in mild temperatures that hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so whether your pooch is taking a walk at the dog park or playing around in leaf piles, he or she will still be at risk for a flea infestation. Here are a few ways to keep your dog in tip-top shape throughout the fall.

1. Keep using those topical drops! If you've been utilizing Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Flea & Tick Treatment or Dogs and Puppies to keep your dog safe, this is a great option for the fall as well. These drops are placed at the skin level of your dog's shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas, brown dog ticks, deer ticks, flea eggs and larvae, as well as keep away those bothersome mosquitoes. This is one of the best options out there for pet parents that can keep their dogs safe all year long.

2. Invest in flea shampoo. One of the most important allies in the fight against a flea infestation is a proper flea shampoo, which can prevent the spread of these pesky insects throughout your home. Hartz® UltraGuard Plus® Flea & Tick Dog Shampoo is a wonderful product to have around the house that can kill fleas and ticks, and prevent potential reinfestations for two weeks. The product also contains coconut extract, which can soothe dry or flaky skin that could be caused by insect bites.

3. Visual checks. While having the right anti-flea and tick products around the house is extremely important, playing an active role in your dog's parasite care is just as important. When you're brushing your dog or giving him a bath, make sure to check deep down to the skin level to see if there are any signs of flea filth and other pesky bugs. These handy tips and keeping a close eye on your dog's condition will help both of you get through the fall weather unscathed.