Summer vacation is coming up—but for dogs’ skin, August often marks the start of a challenging period. Many pet owners underestimate how active fleas, ticks, and other skin irritants still are. It’s precisely during the last warm weeks of the year that skin problems often develop quietly—and aren’t noticed until they’ve worsened.
Why fleas and ticks are extra active in August
Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid conditions—exactly what we typically see in late summer. Days are often hot, while nights are cooler and more humid. That combination is ideal for parasites. What’s more, many dogs are spending more time outdoors now, in tall grass, in fields, or in the woods.
Fleas remain active until October, especially in areas with a mild climate. They also thrive in well-heated indoor spaces or pet beds—a single flea can lay hundreds of eggs, which means a serious infestation can develop quickly.
How parasites cause skin problems
A tick bite often goes unnoticed and leaves a small wound. If not treated properly, it can become infected. Flea bites don’t just cause itching—many dogs also have allergic reactions to flea saliva, which leads to intense scratching and skin irritation.
But parasites aren’t the only culprits. Scratching, biting, or licking the affected areas weakens the skin barrier and disrupts the natural balance of the skin’s flora. This makes it easier for bacteria and fungi to gain access—resulting in hotspots, weeping eczema, redness, or even hair loss.
Other triggering factors in late summer
In addition to parasites, there are other factors that can cause skin stress in dogs during August:
-
Swimming in the sea or a lake can dry out or irritate the skin
-
Pollen, dust, and grasses cause contact reactions
-
Intense heat puts a strain on sensitive areas of the skin
-
Residues from insect repellents or chemical grooming products can cause irritation
Dogs with sensitive or already damaged skin are particularly vulnerable right now. That is why prevention and targeted skin care are especially important at this time.
What you can do now
To prevent or detect skin problems early in late summer, veterinarians recommend the following steps:
-
Check your dog’s coat and skin daily
Pay special attention to the armpits, toes, ears, and base of the tail: check for ticks, redness, or scabs. -
Gentle skincare over harsh products
Avoid products containing alcohol, perfume, or synthetic ingredients. Your skin needs support right now, not additional irritants. -
Strengthen the microbiome balance
A healthy skin microbiome is crucial for the skin’s resilience. It protects against inflammation and aids recovery after irritation.
Doderm – natural relief for irritated skin
Doderm Repair Gel has been specially formulated to gently soothe irritated, stressed, or sensitive skin and support the skin’s natural balance. It contains natural antibodies from colostrum—an innovative active ingredient that specifically targets harmful microorganisms without disrupting the skin’s beneficial flora.
Whether it's a tick bite, a flea allergy, minor scrapes, or itching—Doderm can help strengthen the skin barrier and restore your dog's well-being.
