FLEA AND TICK PREVENTION
By Cristina Anzures
Fleas and ticks feed on your pet’s blood and can cause health problems ranging from allergic reactions to serious tick-borne illnesses.
Fleas can take in 15 times their own weight in blood so dogs and cats that lose too much blood may develop anemia, a dangerous drop in the number of their red blood cells. Puppies and kittens are especially at risk. Signs of anemia caused by fleas include pale gums and lack of energy.
Fleas are the most common cause of skin disease in dogs and cats. When a flea bites, it injects saliva into your pet’s skin. This may trigger an allergic reaction. Signs include intense itching, hair loss (especially just in front of the tail), scabs, and red, irritated skin, which may lead to skin infections.
Fleas also can affect humans. To avoid flea bites, keep your animals and your home flea-free.
The Brown dog tick, also called the kennel tick, does well indoors and usually attaches around the ears or between a dog’s toes. This tick can carry serious diseases that affect dogs, such as ehrlichiosis.
The Deer ticks feed on many types of mammals, including people. They’re dangerous because they can transmit Lyme disease to dogs and people. Lyme disease causes fever and joint pain and, sometimes, serious kidney disease in dogs.
The American Dog Tick is one of the most common ticks and feeds on people as well as dogs. These ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever and can be fatal in dogs and may cause serious symptoms in people.
Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis cause similar symptoms in dogs: loss of appetite, fever, swollen lymph nodes and joint swelling or pain.
Be aware that there are many different flea and tick prevention products on the market, and some are very toxic and could have adverse reactions on your pet.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from the effects of fleas and ticks, we recommend scheduling a veterinary appointment with us . At Anzer Animal Hospital our veterinarians and staff have extensive experience and will treat your pet safely, providing protection for up to 12 weeks with only one dose, covering the entire duration of the flea lifecycle to prevent fleas from re -infesting your home .
We know flea and tick infestations can be frightening and overwhelming, but we assure you they are treatable. Call us at 561-619-7600 and let us exceed your expectations!