Summer is in full swing and all the pests that bite our beloved pets are active. Flea and tick control is important this time of year in Virginia Beach. Fleabites are uncomfortable for your pets and your family and ticks can infect both humans and animals with Lyme disease and other serious diseases.
Prevention is the best way to deal with fleas and ticks. Now is the time to come into see our veterinarian at the Birdneck Animal Hospital for a physical exam and to get the right preventative medications for your pet. We recommend Frontline, Advantix and the Preventic collar as effective preventative steps. There are also tests that can be done at our veterinary hospital to check for common parasites and diseases if you are concerned that your pet has been affected.
Simple Things to Be on the Watch for Outdoors
Hiking, vacations and playing outdoors combined with the warmer weather increases the chances that your pet will pick up parasites. Be sure to trim long grasses and keep your pets from exploring wooded areas with thick undergrowth. When hiking, keep your dog leashed and on the trail.
Parasites Can Bring Serious Problems
Ticks are particularly dangerous because they can carry deadly diseases including Lyme disease. Do regular tick checks on all of your pets- even ferrets and pocket pets. Ticks and fleas can travel into your house and then drop off and later infest your house pets. Remove all ticks promptly using either a tick removal tool or a pair of tweezers. Do not irritate the tick because it can cause the tick to further infect your pet. Learn to recognize the early signs of Lyme disease. Symptoms can include lethargy, low fever, loss of appetite and lameness.
If you suspect your animal has been infected with Lyme disease call our veterinarian in Virginia Beach or come into the Birdneck Animal Hospital immediately so that a test can be done to determine whether or not your pet has Lyme disease.
Make Flea and Tick Prevention and Control part of your summer prep list every year with a visit to our local veterinary clinic and your pets and family will be healthier, more comfortable and ready to enjoy all that summer has to offer!
What outdoor activities do you enjoy with your pet?