Pet Sense (Archives)
All Creatures Animal Hospita
1894 Ohio Pike 797-(PETS)
Flea Month
Fleas are the most common external parasite of our companion animals. They are bloodsucking parasites that can cause diseases in many species, including dogs, cats, and humans too. Not only are they a nuisance, but they also can cause tremendous anxiety in your pets. Did you know that people, as well as other household pets can bring fleas inside your home? Once fleas are in your home, they can remain active through the entire year. I’ve only seen one flea; do I really need to treat my pet now? Flea control has always been a challenge because adult fleas cause the clinical signs; however, majority of flea populations are found in and around the house. Although you see only one, adult fleas are only approximately 5% of the population. The other 95% are the immature stages of the flea life cycle such as:
The eggs (eggs are laid in the coat; however, tend to fall off the host).
Larvae (larvae develop and feed on the adult fleas’ feces [blood] that falls from the coat).
Pupae stages (the final stage prior to adulthood - these cocoons are very resilient as they can lie dormant for many months).
Regular vacuuming and household cleaning can help control fleas in the environment; however, keeping your pet protected is the best initiative you can take to keep your pets and home, flea free. Be sure to treat all your pets! Should I only use flea prevention during the warmer months? The warm temperatures and humidity found inside a house can create a year round home for fleas. So to be sure your pet is protected, flea prevention can also be used during the colder months.
Can I use a flea shampoo? Flea shampoos can be used; however, they are less effective than sprays, dips, or topical flea treatments because they have little residual effect. All Creatures has a variety of flea control products that are highly effective, long lasting, and safe. How do I know if my pet has fleas? Do you pet your furry 4-legged companion everyday? If so, take advantage of this time to examine your friend for evidence of parasites. A cuddling session is always a great opportunity to check from head to toe, for not only fleas, but other parasites as well. Face and head – does your pet shake their head a lot? Scratch at the ears? Are there bald patches? Scabs? Redness? Excess wax or debris inside the ears? Neck and body – use a flea comb to check for fleas or flea “dirt”. Legs and feet – check the legs for any redness, hair loss, or scabs. If your pet has been scratching aggressively, there could be hair/blood found around the toenails.
Here are some of the products we carry for heartworm and fleas and recommend for you to use:
Heartguard: Heartworm, Roundworm & Hookworm preventative.
Intercepter: Heartworm, Roundworm, Hookworm & Whipworm preventative.
Heartworm/Flea Combos
Sentinel: Heartworm, Fleas, Roundworm, Hookworm & Whipworm.
Advantage Multi (Dogs): Heartworm, Fleas, Roundworm,
Hookworm, Whipworm & Mange.
Tick Season is here!
All Creatures Animal Hospital offers several different products to help you keep your pet tick free. Ticks are out in full force right now, and cause multiple diseases. Frontline kills fleas and ticks on dogs and cats. Advantix is a DOG ONLY product, and it kills fleas, ticks, and repels mosquitoes. Preventic collars are also available for dogs as well.
