Prevent pests on your pet

by By Vetsource

4 min read

Springtime has arrived with fresh flowers, breezy days — and a few annoying pests.

It’s the perfect time for adventures with your pet, but you may encounter fleas and ticks along the way. Learn how you can prevent pests on your pet and keep your furry pal safe all year long.

How to identify pests

Fleas

We’re all familiar with these tiny brown critters. If a flea has settled on your cat or dog, you may notice excessive scratching, licking, hair loss, scabs, or hot spots on your pet’s skin. You may also notice flea dropping or eggs in your pet’s fur. Droppings look like small dark specks of dirt, while eggs appear as white specks. If you notice any of these signs of fleas, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Ticks

Ticks are tiny but mighty pests that can cause serious health issues for your pet. Your pet may pick one up while walking in tall grass or shrubs. They usually latch onto your pet’s head, neck, ears, paws, or around the eyes. Removing ticks can be troublesome, so be sure to do everything you can to prevent your pet from contracting one.

How to prevent pests

The best way to protect your pet from these pests is with a year-round preventative. Talk to your veterinarian to find the best option for your pet. The most effective preventatives will prevent parasites at all life stages. It is extremely important to choose a safe and efficient product that continues to prevent and eliminate pests over time. There are various types of flea and tick treatments:

  • Topical: Monthly liquid applications that are applied directly to your pet’s skin.
  • Oral: Tablets that are given monthly. Be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine the correct dosage.
  • Collars: Flea and tick collars can protect your pet for long periods of time, but they only kill adult parasites.

Be sure to talk to your veterinarian before choosing one of these types of treatment. Do not use human pest repellants, and only use preventatives for your pet’s species. Take your pet in for regular checkups and keep their vaccinations updated to increase their protection against pests.

Fleas and ticks can be irritating — and downright dangerous — but with proper care and treatment, your pet can stay safe all year long.

Vetsource

Vetsource

Related Post

Gifts your pet will love

Gifts your pet will love

Looking for a present for your furry friend for the holidays? Try one of these gift ideas! Treat-dispensing toys Treat-dispensing toys add a delicious spin to traditional toys. Before you give your pet this tasty gift, be sure the dispenser has multiple openings. If...

5 tips for a stress-free holiday for you and your pet

5 tips for a stress-free holiday for you and your pet

Help the holiday season go a little more smoothly with shopping advice, tips for snowbirds, and more. 1. Plan ahead Shipping carriers and retailers across the country are again expecting record demand during the holiday season. To allow for potential delays, consider...

What do vet techs do?

What do vet techs do?

Celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week by learning about the important role vet techs play in keeping our pets healthy. What is a veterinary technician? Vet techs handle similar responsibilities as nurses, doctors, and customer service reps. Whether they need...

Connect with us

Our Prescription Management, Client Engagement, and Data & Insights solutions have made a difference for thousands of pet healthcare businesses. Find out how Vetsource can make a difference for you.