Preventing Fleas/Ticks in Pets

Pets are very susceptible to ticks and fleas. However, you can protect your animal friend from such pesky insects. Like any pet owner, you should do everything to keep ticks and fleas from moving into your home and bothering your pet. Just the thought of an infestation can cause a pet owner’s skin to start crawling.
 

Certain pet health problems can also result from pest infestation. Flea allergies, for example, can cause skin damage and itching. Ticks, on the other hand, can carry certain organisms that can cause illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. Therefore, it is important to prevent pest infestation effectively and regularly for the safety and health of your beloved pet.
 

The first thing you need to understand is that infestations of fleas and ticks can take months to control. Fortunately, if you take some simple precautions, you will be able to prevent pests from hatching their evil plans. You also need to understand that an infestation can happen at any time of the year. However, where you live can make a huge difference.
 

Some of the ways to prevent a pest infestation in your pet and home include:

 

Prevent Fleas and Ticks From Setting Up Home in Your Yard

This is the first line of defense when it comes to preventing ticks and fleas in pets. If your home has a yard, you need to keep the shrubs trimmed back and grass mowed. This is a simple preventative move. It will prevent pests from finding a place to hide. In other words, it will eliminate the curb appeal for ticks and fleas.
 

You also need to discourage wildlife and feral pets from gaining access into your yard. This is because such animals bring their pests with them. Feral cats, raccoons, and opossums are the worst offenders. To prevent them from coming into your yard, avoid leaving cat or dog food outside.
 

Finally, you need to trim back any high shrubs and trees that could allow wildlife to crawl into your attic. Take the time to seal off any openings to your shed, garage, crawl spaces, or under your deck.

 

Keep Your Home Clean

Having a pest infestation in your home does not necessarily mean that your home is dirty. If you pay special attention to certain areas, however, you can discourage pests from feeling at home. Immature fleas, for example, love to set up camp in throw rugs and carpeting. It is a good idea to vacuum your rugs at least once a week. If you spot fleas, make a point of vacuuming more than once a week.

Take Preventative Measures

You should use spot-on tick and flea treatments on your pet. When your cat or dog comes home, brush through his or her coat, or run a flea comb through his coat before you allow him or her inside. This practice will reduce the number of fleas and ticks he or she carries. If your pet has long hair, you should consider having it shaved down, especially during the summer months. This will make it easier for you to spot any pests.

Treat Infestations

There is a wide range of tick and flea control products on the market. You should use them on your pet if you notice any infestation. This will prevent fleas and ticks from getting a foothold.

To know more about fleas and ticks in pets, visit Lakeville Family Pet Clinic at our offices in Lakeville, Minnesota. You can also call (952) 595-6500 to book an appointment.