Love Your Pets? – So do Ticks and Fleas (Part #2)

As I said last week, the worst thing about being a dog is dealing with ticks and fleas and the dangers they pose. I spoke at depth about how we pets have to be very careful, especially during the warm months of the year, not to become a victim to Lyme disease and/or “tick paralysis” caused by infected ticks who latch on to us, get a nice blood meal, while infecting us at the same time. Ticks are really bad, and they are a danger to us all, but so are fleas. This blog will speak to our dilemma with fleas, and how to prevent some of the problems fleas can bestow on our cute little hairy bodies.

Hi, my faithful dog-blog fans. Again, this is Hunter, Loyal’s loyal Termite Detective bringing you a pet’s perspective of what we have to deal with when it comes to spring and summer pests. By informing you pet owners; I hope to lessen the negative effect these critters have on the animals that many of you consider being a very important part of your lives; dogs and cats who, like me, are loved family members.

Fleas are a common pest that often affects us dogs and cats. The most common species of fleas plaguing American homes and domestic animals is the “cat” flea. I’m glad cats get the rap for these little buggers. Their bites can cause itchy, red bumps that can lead to excessive scratching. Fleas can cause conditions such as anemia, flea allergy dermatitis (had it, hate it), and can transfer tapeworms. I told you these little things are bad news.

Adult fleas lay their eggs on their host, where they hatch and reproduce. Eggs can also roll off onto nearby surfaces such as carpets, couches, pet bedding; usually, anywhere a family pet has access to and particularly like to lay. Fleas can be hard to find since they are so small and move very fast along the surface of the skin. In addition to being hard to find, they breed fast. One adult flea can lay as many as 20 eggs per day and the eggs hatch within 2 to 14 days. As a result, a flea infestation can grow quickly. A large infestation of fleas can be difficult and time-consuming to eradicate. A flea infestation in your home should always be left to a licensed pest professional to handle. They will have the knowledge, tools, and experience to treat the infestation safely and effectively.

Wait a minute, hold it, not again? The tune is back in my head. I can’t help myself! Who ya’ gonna’ call? Pestbusters!! No, Who ya’ gonna’ call?  Call Loyal!!  Man, I love that tune! I’ve got a few folks in the office humming this one.

Of course, the best way to protect your pets and your home from common household pests is to prevent an infestation before it ever happens. Luckily, there are many steps pet owners can take to protect their pets from pests like fleas. Some of these are similar steps I wrote about last week to ward off ticks. It’s a good exercise to frequently practice these protective measures:

• Bathe dogs regularly, using a shampoo that can kill pests.
• Consult with a veterinarian to determine if a preventative medicine is recommended for your pet.
• Wash your pet’s bedding, crate, toys, food bowls and sleeping areas on a regular basis.
• Keep your home clean and clutter free to deter pest infestations and make it easy to spot any pests that do find their way indoors. Vacuum frequently and wash linens on a regular basis.
• And most importantly; if you suspect your home is infested with fleas, contact a licensed professional.

Oh boy, perfect timing for another round of my favorite tune, ready? Who ya’ gonna’ call Pestbusters!! No, no, Who ya’ gonna’ call? Call Loyal!!

I think this one may stick around for a while.

By following these tips and keeping your pet (and your home) pest free, you’ll help ensure that your pet has many happy, healthy years ahead of them. To me, and my many pet pals, this sounds good.

If you have any questions, you know who to call! You thought I was going there again, didn’t you? I’ll save some of my howling chops for next time. Until then, this is Hunter, your favorite dog-blogger, asking, What’s Buggin’ You? Bark at you later. Ruff! Ruff!