Fleas, ticks, and heartworms can be incredibly difficult to deal with. They can also cause your animals a great deal of discomfort. To avoid these pests, make a plan with your vet and attend annual appointments for testing. It is important to recognize signs of infestation as early as possible.

The Problem with Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms

One of the issues with fleas is that they have a long life span. It can take up to months to rid your pets of fleas once they have set up shop. You should check your pets regularly for fleas as well as ticks, the latter of which can carry diseases. Heartworm can be deadly, and it is imperative to visit your vet yearly for testing.

How Does Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention Work?

Fleas

To prevent fleas, limit the contact your pet makes with wild areas and stray animals. Make sure to keep your animals clean by bathing and brushing them. Check your pet’s fur regularly for fleas and ticks. Fleas move quickly and are difficult to detect. Once they attach to your pet, they can keep laying eggs. Pest control products can prevent and eliminate fleas from your cat or dog.

Ticks

Dogs are at high risk for tick bites and diseases. Check for ticks daily and after any possible exposure to tick-laden areas. If you spot a tick, remove it promptly and visit your veterinarian. You can take other measures to limit tick populations in your backyard. If you are using pesticides to control a tick population, make sure to follow your area’s guidelines and talk to your vet about any possible hazards. Tall grasses also encourage ticks to populate, so keep your lawn in check.

Heartworms

Heartworm is a parasite spread through mosquito bites. One can find heartworms anywhere with a mosquito population. Heartworm disease is a serious threat to dogs, and all dogs are at risk of contracting the parasite. For the best preventative measures, talk to your vet. There are several heartworm prevention medications that you can give your animals, such as a monthly chewable pill, a topical cream, and a semi-annual/annual injectable medicine. Test your dog for heartworm every year at the clinic, and do not skip testing if your dog is on one of these medications. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend the best products.

Why Is Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention Important?

Preventing ticks, fleas, and heartworm is entirely possible with the right planning and measures. These issues can be quite costly, not to mention the heartache they cause your animals. It is up to you to ensure that your pet is healthy, happy, and flea/tick/heartworm-free. Making a plan with your vet and attending regular appointments can save you and your pet a trip to the vet later on.

To discuss preventative options further, call Port Royal Veterinary Hospital at 843-379-7387 or visit our office in Port Royal, South Carolina. We will help you develop a plan that’s best for you and your pet, and you can rest assured that your pet’s health is in good hands.