Why Flea and Tick Prevention is Crucial …
Spring has finally sprung, and it’s time to head back to the great outdoors with our furry companions. But pets and people aren’t the only creatures ready to break free from cabin fever. Fleas and ticks will soon be “bugging” our pets, so we need to be prepared with effective flea and tick medicine.
In this blog, our team at Pet Dominion Animal Hospital shares why flea and tick medicine needs to be part of every pet’s springtime pet wellness routine.
Why Springtime is Primetime for Parasites
April showers and warmer temps create the perfect setting for pests, like fleas and ticks, that thrive in moist conditions. Plus, as other critters like birds and small mammals leave the comfort of their winter dens, they can carry parasites and spread them to cats and dogs.
A Primer on Pet Pests
Fleas and ticks may be tiny, but these little bugs can create big problems if proper flea and tick medicine isn’t used.
Fleas: Besides giving pets a serious case of the “itch,” fleas transmit tapeworms, which cause loss of appetite, significant weight loss, intestinal inflammation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Flea bites can also become infected.
If your pet is excessively scratching and biting at the skin, take a peek at the base of your pet’s fur. Black flecks (flea “dirt”) and tiny red bumps could signal the presence of fleas.
Ticks: Most pet owners know that deer ticks transmit Lyme disease, but other species of ticks are responsible for a host of nasty tick-borne illnesses.
Examine your pet after spending time in tick-prone areas and remove any that haven’t latched on. Contact your veterinarian for proper tick removal if one has already attached itself to your pet. Never yank a tick from your pet’s skin.
How to Help My Itchy Pet
The best way to protect your cat or dog (and your home) is with year-round flea and tick medicine. After all, these tiny pests can hitch a ride inside before winter weather descends, meaning fleas and ticks can pose a problem in any season.
We are happy to recommend appropriate flea and tick medicine for your pet’s breed, size, and other health considerations. Flea and tick medication comes in topical or oral form and usually has to be administered just once a month.
If you do see fleas on your pet, use these strategies while waiting to talk to your veterinarian:
- A flea comb can help remove adult fleas and flea eggs
- Bathe your pet using a veterinarian-approved flea shampoo
- Vacuum your home thoroughly and launder all pet bedding in hot water
- Let your veterinarian know about other household pets that may need treatment
Springtime Pet Wellness Care
Flea and tick medicine coupled with regular wellness exams and vaccines provide your pet with optimal protection against preventable diseases. Please contact us to schedule an examination or to discuss your pet’s flea and tick medicine.