{
  "id": 2325221,
  "title": "Early signs of ticks and fleas in dogs that are easy to miss",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/early-signs-of-ticks-and-fleas-in-dogs-that-are-easy-to-miss",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-21T07:00:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express - Lifestyle",
    "slug": "the-indian-express-lifestyle",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/pets-animals/dog-scratching-vet-early-tick-flea-warning-signs-10520483/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ticks and fleas pose significant health risks to dogs, often going unnoticed until symptoms worsen. Early detection is key to preventing severe itching, skin infections, allergic reactions, and potential transmission of diseases to humans. Pet owners should be vigilant for subtle signs such as persistent itching around the ears, neck, belly, tail base, and between the toes. Small red bumps, hair thinning, and flea dirt (flea droppings) are also early indicators. Behavioral changes like excessive scratching, chewing, licking, restlessness, and sensitivity during grooming can signal the presence of parasites before they are visibly spotted. To address infestations, pet owners should inspect their dog's coat thoroughly, paying attention to hidden areas. Consulting a veterinarian for confirmation and treatment, which may involve topical or oral medications, medicated shampoos, or tick removal, is crucial. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment by washing bedding, vacuuming, and regular grooming, along with year-round preventive measures recommended by a veterinarian, helps avoid reinfestation and reduces the risk of skin infections and tick-borne illnesses.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [
    "Subtle signs like itching around ears and neck may indicate ticks and fleas.",
    "Small red bumps, hair thinning, and flea dirt signal early infestation.",
    "Consult veterinarian for confirmation and year-round preventive measures."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Indian Express",
        "title": "Early signs of ticks and fleas in dogs that are easy to miss",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/early-signs-of-ticks-and-fleas-in-dogs-that-are-easy-to-miss-2330418",
        "published": "2026-08-21T07:00:20.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}