In many areas, the cold weather is breaking and warmer spring days are upon us. While the long days and sunshine are a welcome reprieve, for our pets it means the onset of flea and tick season. Before you gear up and head out for long walks and playtime with other pets, consider these helpful tips to keep your furry friend safe from unwanted pests.
Fleas
Fleas are extremely common and destructive. They are an insect that feeds on blood and can jump very high making it difficult to get an infestation under control. The other challenge with fleas is they can live for up to 12 months while producing millions of offspring. If you suspect your dog or cat has fleas, you will notice relentless scratching and a loss of hair in that area. You will want to take these symptoms seriously as fleas can produce health complications in your pet.
If you do suspect fleas, consult your veterinarian. If they agree, you will start a treatment plan for your pet which can include topical or oral treatments, shampoos, sprays, or powders. Be sure to clean your home, bedding and furniture and consider a treatment of your outside space such as a grass spray.
Ticks
Ticks can also be very harmful to your pet. They feed on blood and can transmit diseases to dogs and cats through their bite. Ticks can cause illness in your pet such as anemia, infection, and Lyme disease. Since ticks are common in warmer months, make it a habit to check your pet every time they come in from outside. Ticks are also very active in wooded areas.
While very tiny to see, you will be able to feel a tick on the skin. When checking your pet, pay close attention to their ears, neck, and head as that is common spot for ticks to attach on your pet, although they can be found anywhere on the body. It is sometimes easier to use a comb to pull the hair up as you inspect your pet.
If you have found a tick on your pet, you will want to remove it carefully, grasping the tick close to the skin to ensure all parts of the tick are removed and you don’t spread the infection. There are helpful, inexpensive tools to aid you in this process, and tweezers work well.
Be sure to wear latex gloves during the removal. Prepare a screw top jar filled with rubbing alcohol for the tick after the removal. After removal, disinfect the bite area on your pet and wash your hands (even though you were wearing gloves). Monitor the area for any redness or inflammation. If you notice signs of an infection, you should take your pet to the veterinarian. Be sure to take the tick (in the jar) for further examination by the veterinarian.
Prevention
There are a variety of preventative treatments for fleas and ticks available from your veterinarian. Both chewable pills and topical medications are available to give to your pet monthly. If you live in warmer climates, or if you experience a milder winter, you may consider flea and tick treatments year-round. Speak to your veterinarian for their expertise and guidance.