As pet lovers, we all aim for nothing but the best for our furry friends. With spring blooming around us, it also ushers in something a lot less pleasant: the “tick”ing time bomb of the flea and tick population. In the Sunshine state, flea and tick prevention is a year-round chore. Up north, as the thaw of spring sets in, these tiny pests wake up – kicking off their season of egg-laying and looking for hosts. These tiny parasites can pose a significant threat to the health of our pets.
Common diseases pets can get from these pests include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, and flea-borne typhus, among others. Fleas are often hosts of tapeworms, which can be quite unpleasant to deal with. Having your pet on prevention helps to avoid these complications.
Symptoms of tick and flea infestation in pets may vary depending on the type of disease contracted. Fleas are usually pretty easy to spot; repeated scratching or biting the skin or paws is a big clue. Common signs of tick-borne illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, swollen joints, and skin irritation. If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a tick or is displaying any unusual symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. Many issues caused by these pests are treatable, but prevention remains the best approach to safeguarding your pet’s health.
Prevention formulated to combat ticks and fleas typically come in various forms, including spot-on treatments, oral medications, and collars. These products contain ingredients that either repel ticks and fleas or kill them upon contact. By administering these medications regularly as directed by your veterinarian, you create a protective barrier around your pet, effectively shielding them from tick and flea infestations.
There are certain medications and substances to avoid in the fight against fleas and ticks. If you aren’t into pesticides, that’s fine too! We have plenty of all natural options for you too. Ask us in store for our recommendations!
