Preparing Your Pet For Flea & Tick Season

As the warm weather makes its way in for the summer it’s time to start thinking about protecting your pets from those pesky summer pests. Fleas and ticks can cause a host of different problems for your pet including infections and disease. Thankfully we can help to make sure these little buggers won’t mess with your summer fun and pet walks!

Tips for keeping your pets safe from fleas and ticks

• Collars

Tick collars are a good option and can be most effective at protecting the head and neck area. After attaching the collar ensure it is not too tight and allows for adequate room to breather. Also, follow up and check for signs of irritation or reactions to the collar.

• Flea & Tick treatments

Spending time outdoors with your pet means a higher level of exposure to fleas and ticks. Using a preventive treatment can help to reduce the chance of bites and infection. Consult with your veterinarian  about which treatments would best be suited to your pet.

• Wandering

Keep the amount of time your pets spend wandering through high grass and wooded areas to a minimum. Try keeping them in grassy areas that are well maintained. Also going for walks on sidewalks or trips to the beach are all great options for time outdoors.

• Lawn care

With a properly maintained lawn you can help with keeping fleas and ticks to a minimum. By trimming your lawn and bushes you help prevent spots for ticks to be, thus reducing the number in your yard. You may also consider a lawn treatment if you find areas on your property that have a concentration of ticks. You must exercise caution though as these treatments could be harmful to your pets.

• Be vigilant 

If your pet does spend a regular amount of time outdoors, be sure to check them daily for any signs of fleas and ticks. Keeping your pet’s coat shorter during the summer months can also aid with spotting the elusive little buggers on them.

While fleas and ticks can be a nuisance to you and your pets, following these helpful tips can help reduce the chances of picking them up. Always be sure to consult your Veterinarian regarding health topics for your pets and any preventive treatments you may be considering for them!

Spring Pet Precautions

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Photo Source: Flickr / Tambako the Jaguar

Happy spring!  Now that the days are longer and the weather is getting warmer, it’s time to start thinking

about preparing your pet for the spring.  We want to remind pet owners to get their pets ready for the change in season before heading outside.

Spring pet precautions:

• Heartworm Prevention – Warmer weather means mosquito season.  Heartworms that are spread through mosquito bites are very dangerous to pets.  Once the temperature hits 55F, we recommend that pet owners take preventative steps.
• Flea and Tick Prevention – Before taking your pet on a nature walk, make sure that they are on preventative medication.  Fleas and ticks are difficult to get rid of and can carry a number of diseases, including Lyme Disease.
• Seasonal Allergies – Pets can suffer from allergies too!  Instead of getting a stuffy nose, your pet might scratch more often or experience ear troubles.  If your pet is exhibiting any symptoms, be sure to bring them into our office for a checkup.
• Exercise Warm Up – You probably didn’t spend a lot of time with your pet outside in the cold winter months.  Just like us, pets tend to gain weight in the winter.  Exercise is good, but be aware of increasing exercise too quickly to avoid injury. 
• Microchips – If your pet is going to be spending more time outdoors, consider getting a microchip.  This is a great way to identify your pet in the event they get lost.  We offer free microchips with any regularly priced spay or neuter!

Learn more about how you can care for your pet this spring.   Contact one of our offices to bring your pet in for a checkup and to take preventative steps for their health.