Be careful! Parasites...
With spring right around the corner our pets will begin spending a lot more time outside when the weather is warm, and during the warmer weather parasites breed more readily. Even if your pets spend most of their time indoors, it is possible for parasites to find them whether carried in on our clothes or by crawling through our screen doors. Here are some common parasites to look out for and ways to combat them during the warmer weather months.
Fleas
Fleas are the most common parasite to affect dogs and cats, and they can be a pain to humans, too, if not kept under control. Fleas can be one of the most difficult parasites to get rid of once they find their way into your home. They can live in carpet and furniture, and they survive for long periods of time without a host. Pets can get fleas even if they do not go outside, so it’s best to take preventative measures to avoid an infestation.
Treatment & Prevention
Treat them with a proven flea medication or a strong shampoo. Ask your vet for advice on which medication will suit your pet best. Continue preventative treatment, even after all signs of them have been eliminated. For your pet’s skin irritation try Forticept Forteclenz Moisturizing and Conditioning Shampoo, the mild blend of natural surfactants, oils, and botanicals help to moisturize and soothe irritation.
Ticks
Ticks can be a big problem during the warm weather seasons. They are can carry Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Ticks attach and gorge on their host’s blood for several days. They often go unnoticed for days until they become fully engorged, giving it plenty of time to infect your pet. Check your dog or cat thoroughly when they come inside from grassy, brushy or wooded areas. You can comb through your pet’s fur and be sure to check the ears, toes and other “folds”. Ticks can be harder to find on longer-haired animals or animals that are dark in color. If they’re attached already, you can remove ticks with a pair of tweezers, but do so carefully to avoid leaving the tick’s head in your pet’s skin. Call your vet if you’re concerned about removing a tick, they’ll be happy to help.
Mosquitoes and Biting Flies
Mosquitoes and flies don’t just go after people. They can be a problem for your pets too, especially if you live near wooded areas or water. These insects can cause itchy bumps and allergic reactions, but mosquitoes and flies can also be vectors of disease and other parasites including West Nile Virus and Heartworm.
Treatment & Prevention
Some ways to combat flying biters this summer include:
Prevent standing water after a rain to eliminate breeding venues and preventing larva from developing.
Burn citronella torches or candles when you and your pet are outside or place citronella plants near entry ways.
Keep your pet inside at dusk, dawn and other times when mosquitoes are most active