Scratch Season: Hidden health risks for pets this spring

Mass. — Spring fever isn’t just hitting people; it’s hitting pets.

New national forecasts show flea and tick season is starting earlier and lasting longer across much of the U.S.. Veterinarians are also seeing a spike in dog allergies with symptoms many pet parents don’t realize are allergy-related.

They play, they roll, they run! And they itch! What looks like playtime can actually be a sign of fleas, ticks, or allergies. Warmer, milder weather is helping parasites survive, and that means pets are at risk before spring is even in full swing.

“A lot of that is due to the weather being warmer,” said Ariana Pereira, DVM, Veterinarian.

Ticks can carry serious diseases, including Lyme and anaplasmosis, and the symptoms aren’t always obvious.

“You’ll see a fever, you’ll see an inappetence, sometimes vomiting, extreme lethargy,” explained Pereira.

And it’s not just ticks. Mosquitoes can spread heartworm, a potentially fatal disease. Intestinal worms like roundworms and hookworms are also more common than many pet owners realize. At the same time, veterinarians say dog allergies are spiking.

“Dogs are itching more; they seem to be scratching all over, they will be prone to ear infections, they’ll also lick at their paws,” said Pereira.

To help relieve the symptoms, wipe paws after walks, and bathe your pets more often during high pollen season. Wash their bedding weekly and avoid high-grassy and dusty areas. And if itching or discomfort is taking over your dog’s day, that’s your signal to call the vet.

Veterinarians say that itching isn’t always harmless. It can be caused by parasites, but it can also be a red flag for hormonal imbalances, food sensitivities, or immune-system disorders that need treatment. In some cases, persistent itching can even be linked to thyroid disease or Cushing’s disease.

Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.

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Sources:

https://capcvet.org/articles/2025-annual-pet-parasite-forecasts

https://www.merck-animal-health.com/blog/2025/08/19/flea-and-tick-survey

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies/

https://www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/itchy-dog

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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