What areas should be inspected for fleas or ticks on a dog?

The inspection of a dog's skin and coat, particularly around the neck, ears, and tail, is critical for detecting fleas and ticks. These areas are favored by parasites due to their warmth and shelter, allowing fleas and ticks to hide and feed without easily being noticed.

The neck region, especially behind the ears, is a common hiding spot for fleas, while ticks often latch onto the skin in less accessible areas like along the edges of the ears and the base of the tail. The dense fur in these areas can make it challenging to spot the parasites, which is why thorough inspection is recommended.

Other areas of the dog, while they may host parasites, are generally not as common for the initial infestation. Thus, focusing the inspection on the neck, ears, and tail optimizes the chances of early detection and treatment of flea and tick infestations.