Spring Safety
Protecting Pets Against Pests
The following article is courtesy of our partner, Banfield Pet Hospital. Used with permission.
Karen J. Johnson, DVM, of Banfield Pet Hospital® would like to offer the following tips to pet parents spending more time outdoors with their four-legged family members this summer.
Use flea preventives – Fleas bite and reproduce at a frightening rate, especially in warm weather. The use of a veterinarian-recommended, topical flea control product kills feeding adult fleas and helps stop the population explosion.
Watch out for ticks – "Before attachment, ticks are very small and can hide easily on furry pets. They can also carry Lyme disease," says Dr. Johnson. "Pets can pick up ticks just by walking through tall grass, pastures or wooded areas – especially those frequented by wildlife," she says. "Protect your pet with a product that is labeled to be effective against ticks and carefully inspect your pet from nose to tail after spending time outdoors."
Avoid heartworm – Pets can become infected with heartworm disease as a result of just one mosquito bite. Heartworm disease can be fatal to both dogs and cats, so contact your Banfield veterinarian about heartworm testing and monthly preventive medication.
Treat bug bites and bee stings – Insect bites and bee stings are potentially dangerous, especially if your pet is stung near the mouth or on the throat. This may cause serious swelling that can restrict breathing. If possible, remove the stinger and apply a cold compress to the skin's surface to help stop swelling and relieve pain. Contact your Banfield veterinarian immediately if your pet is stung in the mouth or throat, stung multiple times or if he/she seems to be listless or having trouble breathing.
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Pet Care: Spring Safety:
Flea Facts That'll Make You Itch
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