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Flea and tick season is upon us. These are more than annoying pests; they can cause serious health issues for your pets. Below are simple steps you can take to help protect your furkids.
- Treat for fleas and ticks all year
It’s true that fleas and ticks are most prevalent during the summer months, but some can survive indoors during the winter. This is why it is important to treat your pets year-round for parasites.
- Check the date on all of your flea and tick products.
Have you been hanging on to last year’s flea or tick products? Before using them on your pet, check the expiration date. Out of date products can lose their effectiveness. You should also check with your vet to see if there are new products on the market that might work better.
- Use the right treatment on the proper animals.
Never use products meant for dogs on cats or vice versa. Some treatments made for dogs contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. They can cause severe reactions that will require emergency vet car. Be sure to always use products as they are intended.
- Check your pets for ticks regularly.
If you and your pet have been in an area that might have ticks, do a tick check as soon as you get indoors. Check skin, ears, and armpits.
Not every tick transmits disease, but it is still a good idea to consult with your vet if your pet has been bitten. You will also need to monitor your pet for changes in behavior like lethargy, limping, or loss of appetite.
- Groom your pet.
Grooming is a great way to spend quality time with your pet. It also helps you keep an eye out for any external parasites that may be hiding under your pet’s haircoat.
- Keep up with the yard work.
Ticks tend to like high grass, so it is important to keep your lawn mowed. Fleas prefer warm, moist, shady areas with organic debris. Raking leaves, brush and clippings from your yard will give fleas fewer places to hide and breed.
- Make regular vet appointments.
One important thing your veterinarian does during your pet’s routine checkup is to examine him or her for any signs of parasite problems. If the product you are using isn’t working, your vet can recommend a better solution.