Pets can easily play host to pests, many of which have the potential of transmitting disease. Animals that spend a good amount of time outdoors have increased exposure to parasites and may require veterinary attention. Pets in areas like Brevard, NC generally enjoy mild weather come fall and winter. Unfortunately, this also makes for a longer window of opportunity for unwanted pests to come into contact with a dog or cat.
Pet owners need to stay on top of preventative measures to ensure their pets’ continued health and understand more about the need for parasite prevention throughout the seasons today.
Avoid Fleas and Ticks
Fleas are very common and can be difficult to eliminate. Flea prevention is necessary as these pests quickly multiply, causing irritation to a dog or cat, and potentially leading to transmission of tapeworms, an allergic reaction, or anemia. The first sign of an issue is often when a pet continually bites or scratches a particular area of its body.
Fleas are not the only pests to be found hanging around outside during cooler weather. Ticks can still latch onto dogs and cats. Located throughout the United States, some ticks are known to carry Lyme disease, among other diseases. This handy guide is helpful for pet parents who may have found a tick on their pet, or are wondering about tick activity in an area. Considering that tick prevention is easier and less expensive to handle than treating a dog or cat experiencing a tick-related disease, it is better to have an idea of areas prone to more tick activity.
Year-Round Heartworm Prevention
It is relatively easy to prevent heartworm disease in a dog, cat, or ferret. Be aware of their outdoor environment. Pet owners may want to avoid areas with mosquitos, as these insects can transmit heartworms. Preventative products given to a dog on time are effective in dealing with heartworms. The American Heartworm Society strongly suggests that pet owners continue with heartworm prevention throughout the year. Heartworm preventative products include chewables, topical medications, and injectable medications. Some of these products may be able to offer protection from not only heartworms but fleas and ticks, as well as other parasites.
More Preventative Options
Thankfully, there are ways to handle pesky situations. There are a variety of products that can easily address both fleas and ticks for dogs, such as:
- Cridelio
- Bravecto
- Effitix for dogs
For cats, the topical Cheristin is available, as is Revolution Plus.
When it comes to heartworm prevention, Heartgard Plus & Interceptor Plus are two effective options. As with any product, it should be used as directed. Our veterinarian can provide guidance on quality products found at our in-house pharmacy and our online store!
