While the fall season has
officially begun, the need to protect four-legged friends from parasites
lingers with the season's warm weather. Goodnewsforpets, the original
online home of animal health news, offers pet owners these facts and tips
to keep their pets free of parasites.
-- Fleas are the most common external parasite in cats and dogs. Fleas
prosper in warm, humid environments and feed on the blood of their
hosts.
-- Whether your pet joins you outside or not, it is important to continue
active parasite prevention. If your pet is not currently on prevention,
consult your veterinarian.
-- Always keep your pet's bedding and carpet inside your home clean and
well vacuumed. These areas can be breeding grounds for pests and can
perpetuate an infestation if not kept clean.
-- Signs of fleas on your pet include hair loss, scratching, an unusual
amount of biting and licking and black specs on your pet's skin and
coat. Reactions to fleas range from dermatitis to anemia, which, in
severe cases, can lead to death in small dogs and puppies.
-- Pet owners need to be aware of the American dog tick, the most common
tick found on pets. Ticks thrive in heavily wooded areas and areas with
high grass. Whenever possible, check your pet for ticks by running your
hands through his or her coat and take notice of any irregular bumps.
The American dog tick is also the primary carrier of Rocky Mountain
spotted fever, a potentially fatal disease for humans.
For more information on fleas, ticks and other animal health-related
news, visit goodnewsforpets.
Goodnewsforpets has been a leading source of animal health-related
news since 2000 with more than 300,000 visits a month. The site features
original animal health columns, up-to-date news releases, veterinary
conference information and links to popular associations.
Goodnewsforpets is published by Kansas City-based animal health
communications agency Germinder & Associates, germinder.