The heat of summer may be fading, but pests aren’t going to be going away any time soon. Pests are a problem no matter the weather, as they reappear during warm spells or seek refuge in your home or on your pet. Pests are a pain, so don’t let them eat into your time outside or while we wait for the approach of fall colors. There are three preventable pests that can truly wreak havoc on your peace of mind and your pet’s health. Which three should you plan to prevent before they hitch a ride on your pet?
1. The Fierce and Fatal Heartworm
Heartworms may seem like an impossibility for your pet. Your pet has never had them before, therefore they may not be in danger. But without annual heartworm tests and heartworm preventative, this sneaky parasite could be causing organ damage in your pet.
Early symptoms to look for include:
- coughing and or wheezing
- fatigue
- disinterest in playing
- trouble breathing
Heartworms often can’t be detected until 6 months after they’ve infected your pet’s body. Prevention can be costly, but it’s less than the expense of losing your dog or cat or the treatment needed to save your pets life.
Cats vs. Dogs
Cats can contract heartworms too, but their bodies are not natural hosts, therefore heartworms don’t thrive as well in their bodies. Cats also do not have any treatment methods yet to cure heartworms, so ensure your furry friend stays safe.
Heartworms reproduce more readily in dog’s bodies and have a more severe impact on their organs, heart, and lungs. Untreated heartworm infections in dogs are 100% fatal.
2. The Enduring and Disgusting Flea
When you see a flea, it can be unsettling. If you’ve ever had to deal with them before, you know that they’re a houseguest that will overstay their welcome. For every flea you see, there are many more hiding in your pet’s coat, in the carpet, in bedding, and in your car. Each item needs to be washed in warm water and vacuumed incessantly, while your pet’s infestation is treated, in order to get rid of them. Talk about the ultimate pest.
Not only are they immensely pesky, but fleas can also cause anemia in your pet from consuming so much of their blood. You’ll want to eradicate them as soon as possible so that your pet doesn’t fall ill from being anemic because it can be deadly.
Fleas are easily preventable. You can apply a monthly topical solution to their coat or a more effective option is oral flea prevention, which is often paired with heartworm and tick medication, too.
Allergic Reaction
Pets can be allergic to flea bites, more often than not. Allergic reactions include: scratching until the skin is raw and vulnerable, shedding hair, and discomfort while sleeping. Giving them baths with oatmeal can help soothe their inflamed skin until the fleas die off.
3. The Blood-Sucking Tick
Ticks are terrifying. They can be picked up easily on a walk or while your pet frolics in your garden. Don’t get blindsided by ticks. They feed on your and your pet’s blood to survive while exposing your pets to numerous diseases.
What Diseases Can They Be Exposed to in Minnesota?
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)
- Lyme Disease
- Anaplasmosis
- Babesiosis
- Ehrlichiosis
- Powassan Virus Disease
- Borrelia miyamotoi Disease
- Borrelia mayonii Disease
- Tularemia
Don’t let ticks go unnoticed for weeks to months. Check your pet’s paws, under their collar, around the ears, and under their tail. They can be removed with tweezers to ensure they’re entirely removed from your beloved pet.
How Can Pests Be Prevented?
Prescription medication for flea, heartworm, and tick medication is the best prevention for infestations. Using over-the-counter topical medication can be used in a pinch if you suspect your pet has fleas or ticks and you don’t have any on hand.
Don’t Let Pests Prey on Your Pet’s Health
Your pet is an important part of your home. Not only do you love spending time with them and they appreciate your affection and playtime, but they are also family, too. South Hyland is here to help if you have any questions about your pet’s health. If you notice any new or concerning symptoms, feel free to reach out with a call at 952-884-1868 to connect with our clinic. We’d love to help!
Image credit: Pexels
