Tick Awareness and Prevention for Alpena Pets
When you commit to care for a pet, you know that you are responsible for whatever comes along with taking care of your new family member. Most people, though, didn’t want to care for any unwelcome hitchhikers that might decide to make their home on that pet. Flea and tick prevention is an important part of care for Alpena pets, and knowing how to keep ticks out of your home is essential for harmony in the household!
All About Ticks
Ticks are external parasites that affect all mammals. These arachnids attach to the skin of passing animals to feed on blood. This can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, anemia, and transmission of disease.
In particular, ticks are known to transmit:
- Lyme disease
- Ehrlichiosis
- Anaplasmosis
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
Pets who spend time outdoors, particularly in grassy, wooded, or rural areas, are more susceptible to tick exposure. Areas frequented by white tail deer of significant concern due to being vectors of Lyme disease.
Tick Borne Disease
Ticks are gross in general, but tick-borne diseases in pets can be serious health threats. Common tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever can all lead to severe symptoms if left untreated.
These diseases may cause lethargy, fever, joint pain, loss of appetite. In some cases, an untreated infection can lead to organ damage or other life-threatening complications.
Because ticks can go unnoticed on a pet, often hiding in discrete locations, tick-borne diseases can progress before symptoms appear.
Using preventive measures and being proactive about your pet’s wellness care is key. Don’t hesitate to let us know if your pet has had a tick exposure or if they seem unwell in any way.
Effective Prevention
Options for flea and tick control used to be pretty limited, but thankfully we have made great progress in battling these parasites. Now we have many safe, effective options.
A good choice for flea and tick control should be:
- Labeled for your pet’s size and weight
- Easy for you to administer
- Within your budget
Methods like sprays and collars are typically outdated and less effective than newer prescription options. They also carry a higher risk of side effects.
Over-the-counter topical options can be tempting, but they are not as effective as prescription products. Over-the-counter permethrin-based products are also likely to cause side effects, particularly for cats.
Regular tick prevention measures, including performing routine tick checks and keeping outdoor environments tidy, are crucial in protecting pets. Early detection and prompt removal of ticks can reduce the risk of disease transmission and keep pets healthy. Switzer Veterinary Clinic is here to support you in these goals, just let us know how we can help.