Many pet owners in Pennsylvania are familiar with the problems of fleas and ticks. These small pests can cause serious health issues for pets, leading to an increased risk of disease, skin irritation, and even anemia. It’s important to be aware of the dangers that fleas and ticks pose, as well as preventive measures you can take to protect your pet’s health. Let’s break down why these pests are so popular in Pennsylvania and how to protect your pet from them.
Where Do These Pests Come From?
Fleas and ticks are often found in wooded or grassy areas, making them a common problem for pets who spend time outdoors in Pennsylvania. Warmer temperatures can increase their population; however, fleas and ticks can survive year-round if given the opportunity. Both fleas and ticks feed on blood from their hosts, which is why they are attracted to animals like cats and dogs (and even humans!).
What Kind of Health Risks Do They Pose?
Both fleas and ticks can transmit diseases to their hosts, including Lyme disease, tapeworms, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, bordetellosis (cat scratch fever), ehrlichiosis (tick-borne fever), and more. They can also cause skin irritation due to their saliva when they bite their host. This means that it’s essential to take steps to protect your pet from coming into contact with these pests.
How Can I Protect My Pet?
The best way to protect your pet from flea and tick bites is through preventative measures such as regular grooming sessions with a veterinarian or groomer, daily brushing of fur or feathers (depending on type of animal), monthly topical treatments or oral medications specifically designed for flea/tick prevention from Braxton's Animal Works, keeping lawns mowed short during warm months or free from leaves or debris during cooler months, washing bedding regularly at high temperatures (over 130°F) whenever possible, giving pets a monthly bath using a shampoo specifically designed for repelling fleas/ticks if possible, avoiding contact with wild animals who may harbor parasites like fleas/ticks or other diseases; such as rabies or distemper. Additionally it’s important that all family members wear long pants tucked into socks while walking through wooded areas where these pests may reside – this helps keep both pets & people safe!
Fleas and ticks present a real threat in Pennsylvania; however there are ways you can protect your pet against these dangerous pests. Regular grooming sessions with a vet or groomer along with regular brushing sessions will help reduce the likelihood of an infestation occurring on your pet's fur coat. Additionally topical treatments like ointments prescribed by veterinarians are effective ways to prevent any tick borne illnesses that may occur if left untreated. In order to ensure the safety of both pets & people alike it's best practice to wear long pants tucked into socks when walking through wooded areas where these pests may reside – this helps keep everyone safe! With proper prevention methods you'll be able to keep your beloved furry friend happy & healthy!