Fleas can cause problems for pets, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Not only can these parasites cause severe itching, irritation, and allergies, but they can also transmit tapeworms and diseases. Fleas can infest dogs, cats, ferrets, mice, and rats. And fleas don’t just stay on pets; they can bite people, too.
Ticks are becoming more and more prevalent in North America, and they’re now being found in areas where people and pets didn’t previously encounter ticks. These parasites aren’t just a nuisance; they can cause serious—and sometimes deadly—diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and tick paralysis. Contact us immediately if your pet starts coughing or has joint pain, trouble breathing, fever, weakness, or loss of appetite, weight, energy, or coordination.
The best method for keeping fleas and ticks off your pet is by starting (and keeping) your dog or cat on a flea and tick preventive. Even indoor-only pets are at risk because fleas and ticks can hitch a ride inside on your clothing or shoes. Flea and tick preventives are safe and highly effective at controlling fleas and ticks and the diseases they carry.
Don’t panic if you find a flea or tick on your dog or cat, even if your pet is on a preventive. Some preventives kill fleas and ticks after they’ve come in contact with your pet. Fleas and ticks can hide easily under your pet’s fur, so as an added measure of protection, we recommend checking your pet’s fur on a regular basis.
Bottom line: you don’t want these blood-sucking parasites on your pet or in your home. We can help keep them away or help you get rid of them if they’ve already found their way inside your home. We have a variety of flea and tick preventives to choose from – let us help you pick out which one is right for your pet. In addition, did you know that you can get your pet’s flea and tick preventives delivered to your home? Call us today to find out how to get your pet started on a preventive, either directly from our office or delivered from our online VetSource pharmacy store.
