Should I Keep My Pet On Flea, Tick, And Heartworm Prevention Year-Round?
While some pet parents are worried about fleas, ticks, and other parasites only during the summer, it might be hard to believe that these freeloaders pose a threat to your pooch or kitty throughout the year. They transmit a number of deadly diseases and deteriorate their health.
The only easy way to help your furry friend defend against these pests is to stay current on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention treatments.
Fleas—Beyond the Itch
Fleas are frustrating as they will cause a nuisance in your house. These tiny parasites not only leave dogs and cats scratching themselves to the bare but also transmit tapeworm, which causes gastrointestinal infections. Fleas also cause other diseases like Bartonellosis, Flea Allergy Dermatitis, and Anemia.
Ticks that Carry Debilitating Diseases
Ticks are gross. But what’s more disgusting is that they latch onto your pet and stay firmly attached to the coat for months. If left untreated, they cause deadly diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and even tick paralysis!
Mosquitoes – Carriers of the Deadly Heartworms
More than 70 species of mosquitoes are known to spread heartworms through mosquito bites. Heartworms are dangerous worms that cause severe lung damage, heart failure, and death of the pet. In most cases, there is no treatment for heartworms once the infestation has developed.
Better Safe than Sorry
Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and worms are common pet parasites. Using preventive treatments for your dog or cat throughout the year is the key to keeping them at bay. There is a range of branded, vet-recommended flea, tick, and heartworm treatments available in the market today. They mainly come in oral, topical, and injectable forms and are very easy to administer. Furthermore, keeping your pet safe with preventive treatments is much easier than fighting and eliminating parasite infestations.
Some of the best flea, tick, and heartworm preventions include Nexgard Spectra, Simparica Trio, and Comfortis Plus. Your veterinarian would be the best person to ask for the recommendations, but you can also check out VetSupply for the best deals on flea and tick treatments and free doses.
