A dog with a tick in Atlanta
Summer in Atlanta brings sunshine, outdoor adventures, and, unfortunately, a surge in pests that pose real dangers to our pets. Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and even botflies thrive in the city’s hot, humid climate, putting both dogs and cats at risk for discomfort and, even worse, serious illness. Here’s what Atlanta pet owners need to know about these summer pests and how to keep their furry friends safe.

dog with fleas at Atlanta parkFleas

Fleas are a year-round nuisance in Georgia, but their populations explode in the summer heat. These tiny parasites live in shady outdoor areas, carpets, and upholstery, hopping onto pets as they pass by. Fleas cause relentless itching, allergic reactions, and can transmit tapeworms, as well as some bacterial infections. In severe cases, young or small pets can develop anemia from blood loss.

Prevention is key: use vet-recommended flea preventatives, wash pet bedding regularly, and vacuum frequently to remove eggs and larvae.

multiple ticks on a dog in AtlantaTicks

Atlanta’s warm, wooded environment is perfect for ticks, which can transmit a range of dangerous diseases to pets. The most common tick-borne illnesses in the area include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis. Symptoms range from fever and lethargy to joint pain, neurological issues, and even life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Check pets for ticks after outdoor activities, especially around the head, ears, and between toes. Use tick preventatives, keep grass trimmed, and avoid dense brush to reduce exposure.

mosquito on leaf in AtlantaMosquitoes

Mosquitoes are more than a summertime nuisance, they carry heartworm disease, which is potentially fatal for dogs and cats. Heartworm larvae are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause severe heart and lung problems. Other mosquito-borne illnesses, like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, are rare but possible.

Protect pets by keeping them indoors during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk), eliminating standing water around your home, and ensuring they are on heartworm prevention medication. Because Atlanta doesn’t usually get cold enough, year-round heartworm prevention is key, especially because we’re considered a heartworm “hot spot.”

botfly larvaeBotflies

Botflies are less common than the above pests, but can be a serious threat, especially for dogs that roam wooded or grassy areas in late summer and early fall. The adult botfly lays eggs near animal burrows or on vegetation; the larvae (botfly babies that look like the slug to the right) then burrow into a pet’s skin, causing painful lumps with breathing holes. While mild cases may just cause discomfort, severe infestations can lead to swelling, infection, or even neurological symptoms if larvae migrate to sensitive areas.

If you notice a lump with a small hole or unusual swelling, seek veterinary care. Never try to remove what you suspect is a botfly larva yourself. If you are brave enough to watch this video, you’ll know why it’s best left in the hand of your trusted veterinary team. Gross is an understatement!

dog getting flea and tick prevention ointment in AtlantaKeeping Atlanta Pets Safe from Pests This Summer

At Buckhead Pet Pals, we are all about prevention, which is why the following tips are all about preventing pests to begin with. By following these tips, you and your pets can enjoy the great outdoors without bringing any not-so-great pests home:

  • Use year-round, vet-recommended, species-specific flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives
  • Check pets for fleas, ticks, and unusual lumps after outdoor play
  • Maintain your yard by keeping grass short, removing leaf litter, and eliminating standing water
  • Contact a local pest control company if you notice a growing pest population in and around your home
  • Schedule regular veterinary checkups for early detection of pest-borne illnesses
  • Be vigilant during peak pest seasons, especially in summer

By staying proactive and informed, Atlanta pet parents can ensure their companions enjoy a safe, itch-free summer, no matter what icky pest is lurking outside.

Atlanta’s Best Pet Care

Buckhead Pet Pals offers dog walking, dog and cat sitting, as well as care for other pet species. We proudly serve Atlanta, Buckhead, Sandy Spring, Marietta, and Dunwoody.

Learn more about our onboarding process and scheduling software/app here. We welcome your questions and comments via phone at 404-303-0312 or email at office@buckheadpetpals.com. Existing clients, please request pet care services here.

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to work with Buckhead Pet Pals, check out our jobs page.