Ticked Off? Keeping Your Furry Friends Safe From Ticks
Spring has sprung, and with it comes warmer weather and more outdoor adventures for you and your furry companions.But these adventures can also bring unwelcome hitchhikers: ticks. These tiny bloodsuckers can transmit a range of diseases to both dogs and cats, so it's important to be prepared.
This post will equip you with the knowledge to keep your canine and feline friends safe from ticks.
Defense on Multiple Fronts:
Prevention is Paramount: Talk to your veterinarian about the best tick prevention method for your pet. This could include oral medications, topical treatments, or collars. Remember, following the recommended dosing schedule is crucial!
Fortress Fido & Feline: Create a tick-free haven in your yard. Regularly mow lawns, trim bushes, and remove leaf litter where ticks like to hide. Consider creating a tick-free zone with pet-safe repellents or natural deterrents like cedar chips.
Post-Adventure Inspection: After every walk or outdoor playtime, thoroughly check your pet for ticks. Focus on common tick havens like ears, paws, armpits, and around the tail.
Tick Removal 101:
If you find a tick on your pet, don't panic! Here's how to remove it safely:
The Right Tool: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick firmly at the head, as close to the skin's surface as possible.
Steady Does It: Pull the tick straight out with slow, even pressure. Avoid twisting or crushing the body, as this can release harmful fluids.
Clean Up: Once removed, place the tick in a sealed container with rubbing alcohol to kill it. Clean the bite area with disinfectant and monitor for any signs of infection.
When to Call the Vet:
If you're uncomfortable removing the tick yourself, or if the tick's head breaks off during removal, err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian. Additionally, seek veterinary attention if you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet after a tick bite:
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Fever
Swelling of the lymph nodes
Redness or irritation around the bite site
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help ensure your dog and cat enjoy a tick-free and healthy spring and summer season!
