Fleas and Ticks

When temperatures warm above freezing, external parasites (such as fleas and ticks) become active. Fleas tend to populate quickly on a pet (and in your home)! On the other hand, ticks can attach to your pet and, after feeding, make their way inside your home or yard. Fleas are not only a nuisance, but have the potential to carry disease as well. Ticks are carriers of a number of different blood-borne conditions such as Lyme disease. While our pets do not transmit these insect-borne diseases to humans directly, if your pet brings these parasites into your home, there could be health implications for you and your family’s well-being.

How can I tell if my pet has fleas or ticks?

Sometimes a parasite infection can be obvious – the presence of an engorged tick somewhere on the body, or a very itchy and extensive flea infestation. Your pet will be very itchy and will scratch a lot. Carefully looking through the fur for either the fleas themselves or flea ‘dirt’ (actual flea feces) will allow a proper diagnosis of this condition. However, ticks can be extremely small and difficult to detect on our pets. This makes it challenging to find or remove them before possible disease transmission.

How can I prevent fleas and ticks on my pet?

There are many preventative options available for flea and tick control. Please feel free to call us to discuss the best option for your dog or cat.

What are the treatment options for dogs or cats who have ticks?

If your dog or cat has been bitten by a tick, and that tick was engorged, we recommend a tick-borne disease test in 6 weeks. All pets in tick risk environments should be on a preventative medication program. There are several types of parasite prevention programs available.

What are some simple steps for treating fleas in a senior cat or senior dog?

Our veterinarians can provide an individualized preventative medication plan for your pet. Contact us and schedule an appointment to see which one works best for your pet and for your lifestyle.