Because of the unusually warm winter, the pesky bugs are starting early this year and may be attacking harder than ever. That means our pets are more susceptible than ever. Here are a few things we can do to protect them:
Mosquitoes:
- Mosquitoes are already being seen in Texas and in some areas of the country they are present year round.
- Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so make sure your pets are on heartworm preventative.
- Still water can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Dump out standing water and install bubblers or fountains in ponds to keep the water moving. Don't forget to check after each rainfall!
- Keep pets indoors at dawn, dusk and early evening when mosquitoes are most active.
- Refresh outdoor water bowls a couple times a day to prevent mosquitoes from using them to lay their eggs.
- Do not use DEET on your pet. This may cause neurological problems.
Fleas and Ticks:
- Ticks can cause allergies, tapeworms, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, ehrlichiosis, and more. Many of these diseases can kill you pets!
- There are skin application type products available such as Frontline (effective for killing fleas and ticks) and K9 Advantix (fleas, ticks and mosquitoes); cat products include Frontline and Advantage.
- Flea shampoos, powders, and sprays tend to kill only the adult fleas on the pet at the time of application.
- Flea mousses, foams and creme rinses tend to last a little longer. Flea and tick dips, which are typically poured on the pet, are stronger, but more likely to contain harsh, toxic chemicals. The newer products are regarded as more effective and somewhat safer than the older types of flea control.
- Here's a helpful link for any questions you may have on your flea and tick products:Poisons on Pets - Health Hazards from Flea and Tick Products
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