Fleas & Ticks and How to Handle Them

Take action as the 2018 parasite season approaches!

Tis the season – for fleas and ticks! As the weather grows warmer so do the opportunities for your pet to pick up unwanted passengers. Last year was one of the worst flea and tick seasons on record, and experts are forecasting that 2018 will follow suit due to extended warm temperatures. With the early rise in your outdoor thermometer this spring, summer and even early fall are looking like prime seasons for parasites.

Though parasites still pose a threat during cooler months, warmer months are more comfortable for the unwanted pests. Fleas and ticks prefer their living conditions to stay within 75 – 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and as temperatures warm and the temptation for outdoor activity rises, so does the risk for fleas and ticks.

If left untreated, bites can cause serious skin irritation and health problems, and even lead to typhus and Lyme Disease. While precautionary measures include staying away from high risk areas like thick woodlands or high grass, summertime is synonymous with outdoor activity and Fido will undoubtedly find his way outside. Keep reading to learn about preventative measures, treatments, and why a healthy pet makes for an undesirable host.

Preventative Measures

There are various preventative measures that pet owners can take to stay on the offensive when it comes to fleas and ticks. Taking a few minutes every evening to do daily “tick checks” is a great way to stay ahead of the tick game. From a landscaping perspective, keep your lawn nice tidy to help stave off fleas and ticks. Mowing grass regularly and keeping bushes cut back are simple preventative measures you can take in your own backyard.

Treatments

Essential Oils can be a great option for both parasite treatment and prevention. Oils that are safe to use on dogs include lavender, lemon, citronella, cedarwood, and eucalyptus, but pet owners should consult an expert before applying. If your pet does become infested or oils aren’t for you, it’s important to seek out professional veterinary advice for pharmaceutical grade treatment options. In addition to treating your pet for infestations, you’ll also need to treat your home and the dog’s bedding by deep cleaning – multiple times if needed – in order to rid the living space of parasites and larvae.

A Healthy Pet = An Unlikely host

Pet health is important across the board, and studies show that parasites target less healthy hosts with weak or undeveloped immune systems. Consistent exercise, proper diet, and regular veterinarian visits will support a healthy pet and make them less attractive to parasites. While having a nicely groomed and cared for pet won’t ward off pests completely, it’s a great habit overall and good start to parasite prevention!

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