Summer is the best time of the year for outdoor adventures. Unfortunately, for your furry friends, going outdoors can bring a slew of dangers.
How can I tell if my pet has fleas or ticks?
If you have or have had pets, the chances are high that you’ve dealt with fleas or ticks before. These pesky pests are annoying nuisances, but they can also be incredibly dangerous for dogs and outdoor cats alike. Fleas can suck as much as 15 times their weight in blood, which can fatally harm small animals as well as young kittens and puppies.
Some of the easiest ways to tell if your pet is dealing with fleas or ticks include:
- Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
- Small, brown shapes on pet’s fur
- Tiny, reddish-brown droppings on fabric and other surfaces commonly used by pets
- Tapeworms
- Pale gums or lips
- Visible bumps or lumps
Checking for Fleas
Because smaller animals have lower red blood cell counts, catching fleas early in young animals is essential to their survival. The simplest way to check for fleas on your pet is to run a very fine-toothed comb through their fur. If they have fleas, you’ll pick up both the fleas themselves and any eggs they may have lain. While scratching and licking are the most common indicators of fleas, be sure to call your veterinarian as soon as possible if your pet loses color in its gums or lips. This is a sign of red blood cell loss.
Tick 101
Ticks are a little harder to catch because they don’t cause obvious signs of discomfort. If you or your pet spend time in long grass or frequent wild areas often, make sure to check for ticks every time you come back inside. You can find ticks by checking for bumps or lumps under the skin, usually near the feet, neck, ears, and head.
If you do think your pet has ticks, take them to your veterinarian for removal — removing ticks can be tricky and can result in infection and even paralysis if done incorrectly.
Prevent Fleas and Ticks in Your Home
One or two fleas can quickly turn into an infestation. Check your pet for fleas and ticks frequently, and talk to your veterinarian to get your best friend on their recommended flea and tick medicine. Follow these tips to keep fleas and ticks away from your home:
- Weed and mow your lawn regularly
- Clear grass clippings and leaves
- Keep garbage covered
Contact Enviro-Tech Pest Services to help protect your home and family from fleas and ticks all year long! Reach out online or by phone at (800) 836-3089 to schedule an appointment today.