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Summer is a beautiful time for pets and owners to explore the great outdoors, take long walks, and play in the park. However, it’s also the peak season for some common pests, including fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These pesky creatures can cause discomfort for pets and even transmit diseases. To combat this, we strongly recommend you read about four preventive measures you can take to keep your furry friends healthy and protect your pets against pests.

Read how our veterinarians offer various services to cater to your pet during the summer.

Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

  • Fleas can be found in tall grasses and wooded areas, and their bites can cause severe itching, irritation, and potential allergic reactions.
  • Ticks are often found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and other outdoor environments and feed on animals and humans alike, and can transmit diseases.
  • Mosquitoes are ubiquitous during the summer and can transmit heartworm disease, parasitic infections, and other illnesses that affect dogs if overexposed.

Ask Us About Treatments

Treating a cat or dog flea infestation may take some work and financial investing, but your pet will benefit if done correctly and constantly. Protect your pets against pests this summer with:

  • Oral flea medication: This is the best option for treatment and prevention of fleas and ticks. There are excellent products available that our doctors recommend for the best options to control fleas and ticks.
  • Topical Prescription Medications – This is a better option if your pet is prone to seizures and cannot take oral flea medication. They are the next best option for effective treatment for fleas and ticks, especially for cats. Our veterinarians are knowledgeable and experienced in recommending the appropriate medicine for treatment.
  • Flea Collars – Most brands of flea collars are less than stellar when it comes to treating and eliminating a flea problem. Our vets will be more than happy to recommend specific brands to help your pet to ensure they are effective and provide long-term results.
  • Flea Sprays – This option may offer only a temporary solution. You should know certain sprays may do more harm than good. Overusing or exposing a spray to your pet’s eyes, ears, or nose can be harmful, so check in with us first to determine if this option should be taken.
  • Shampoos – You may think bathing your pet with flea treatment shampoos is a good idea. However, they only offer short-term results. If anything, bathing may not be required now that prescription medications work much more effectively.

Groom Your Pets Regularly

Regular grooming is crucial in maintaining your pet’s overall health and well-being. Mats and tangles can trap moisture, dirt, and pests, leading to skin irritation, over-scratching, and possible illness. We highly recommend a regular grooming session with pets to check them and also check hiding spots on your pet, including:

  • Between the toes
  • Groin and armpits
  • Under the chin and neck area
  • Inside the ears and around the ear folds

Protect Your Home

If your pet is allowed indoors and outdoors, you may have to combat a flea infestation in your home. Unfortunately, by the time you spot them, fleas and ticks have already reproduced several times. To reduce the spread:

  • Wash their pet carrier after each use.
  • Vacuuming your floors, couches, and surfaces your pet likes to lounge to get rid of flea eggs in your home.
  • Change the vacuum bag or clean the canister after vacuuming each room to reduce the chances of spreading eggs.
  • Wash your dog’s bedding regularly throughout the year, and ask our veterinarians about pet-safe ways to wash their bedding.

Remember that getting rid of fleas takes time and effort, and a professional exterminator may be needed in cases of severe infestation.

Secure Your Pet’s Outdoor Environment

Prevention goes beyond grooming and medication. You can also improve their risk of attracting fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes by:

  • Keeping your surroundings tidy by regularly trimming grass and shrubs and removing trash.
  • Limiting your pet’s exposure to heavily infested areas, such as tall grasses and wooded areas.
  • Ensure no standing water is in your yard by regularly emptying and cleaning water containers, bird baths, and flower pots to eliminate breeding sites.

While these preventive measures are effective, it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. They can recommend the most suitable flea, tick, and mosquito control products for your pet.

Key Takeaways

  • Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are common summer pests that can cause discomfort and transmit diseases to pets.
  • Regular grooming, vet-approved preventive treatments, and limiting exposure to infected areas are essential preventative measures.
  • Remember to consult our veterinarians to ensure the best care and protection for your beloved furry companions during the summer.

Why Choose Valley Animal Hospital?

Our professional team offers comprehensive veterinary services, covering vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, nutrition, and travel safety. With their compassionate and devoted care, Valley Animal Hospital will prepare your furry friends for a secure and pleasant summer experience.

Tips on Traveling for the Summer

Ensure your pet’s health and safety on your summer travels by visiting Valley Animal Hospital and preparing for your trip by reading these articles on traveling with pets:

Protect Your Pets Against Pests

Call (956) 787-2709 to schedule an appointment today to provide your pets with the best care before your trip. Contact us with any questions regarding our services, and remember to prepare your pet for hurricane season!

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