Protect Your Pets From Fleas and Ticks

Spring is just around the corner, and daylight savings time begins a week from today.  It's possible that we have made it through one of the harshest winters in years and are heading toward warmer, more sunlight filled days.

But with this change in weather comes two pests that should strike fear into every pet owner - fleas and ticks.

If you have ever dealt with a flea infestation not only of your pet but of your home or with the diseases often left behind from a tick bite, then you know how important it is to protect your pet from the bugs of spring, summer and even fall. If you haven't faced off against fleas and ticks, consider this a helpful warning.

One flea, after feeding on your pet, can lay up to 600 eggs in its lifetime. These eggs are distributed onto your pet and anywhere your pet may go. The eggs hatch, and the process repeats itself becoming a hazard not only to your pet but to anyone and anything your pet comes into contact with.

Ticks carry diseases that can spread to your pet or anyone else that the tick bites. Potential diseases include Lyme or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

With these insects and diseases in mind, here are some ways to keep your pet tick and flea free this year.

Spot on Treatments

Medications like Frontline, K9 Advantix and Advantage Once a Month  are monthly treatments that kill anywhere from 98 - 100% of fleas and ticks that come in contact with your pet. The medications are in a liquid form, and are normally applied to your pet's skin, between the shoulder blades. The great thing about these medications is that they prevent the problem before it even starts. All you have to do as your pet's owner is mark your calendar to apply the medicine once a month and then do it!

Flea and Tick Collars

Flea and tick collars are plastic collars that release insecticide over an extended period of time to protect your pet from fleas and ticks.  The collars were first introduced in 1964. At the time, they were a big advancement in protection for animals, but today, they do not compare to the protection spot on treatments can offer.  If you are in an area that is heavily populated by fleas and ticks, the collar should only be used in addition to the spot on medication.

Shampoos, Dips and Sprays

Shampoos, dips and sprays are often used once a pet has already been infected with fleas and ticks. A warm bath with a good scrubbing using the medicated shampoo will kill most fleas, ticks or other insects on your pet. The dips and sprays do the same. The sprays can also be used on carpets and bedding once the flea infestation has begun.

Check out these tick and flea medications at our local pet stores and find the best method to keep your pet healthy and happy as the warm weather approaches.