Getting Rid of Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks can not only make your pet ill, they also spread diseases humans can contract.  When you find out your pet has fleas or ticks, it is important to act fast.  These insect pests are a common problem and contrary to popular belief, do not insinuate poor hygiene or uncleanliness. 
Below is basic information about these pests and some simple steps you can follow to rid your pet of the infestation while keeping your family and home insect-free.

Flea Removal

According to the ASPCA, fleas thrive in warm, humid environments and are most commonly found on a dog’s abdomen, the base of the tail and the head.  (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-fleas.aspx) Fleas feed on the blood of their hosts and can cause allergic reactions, anemia and often carry tapeworm, a very serious problem for any living being.

The American Veterinarian Medical Association warns pet owners that they may not be aware that their pet has fleas until the pet becomes obviously uncomfortable.  Pets may begin scratching, leading to open sores and possible skin infections.  Owners might also notice flea droppings on the infected pet or even the actual fleas themselves. (https://ebusiness.avma.org/EBusiness50/files/productdownloads/external_parasites_brochure.pdf)

Because fleas can lay as many as 50 eggs each day, it is vital that pet owners start the removal process quickly and effectively.  There are many brands of over-the-counter flea removal products available at supermarkets and pet supply stores.  Be sure to contact and work with your veterinarian to find the best product for your pet.  Never use products designed for dogs on your cat, or vice versa.  And never apply pesticides to very young, elderly, pregnant, or sick animals unless directed to do so by a veterinarian.

Tick Removal

As explained by the ASPCA, “ticks are most active from spring through fall and live in tall brush or grass, where they may attach to dogs playing on their turf. These parasites prefer to stay close to the head, neck, feet and ear area.”  (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-ticks-lyme-disease.aspx) Ticks can not only be a nuisance, but often carry Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.  Both of these diseases can be very harmful to both you and your pet.

If you find a tick on your pet, remove it immediately.  Some of the removal techniques for ticks can be dangerous and will not work.  Do not use the old and improper removal technique of squeezing the insect, coating the tick in petroleum jelly or burning the bugs with fire.  None of these archaic treatments are safe or successful.

When removing a tick, use a tweezers to grab the tick by the head. Remove the insect quickly, clean the wound and wash both your hands and the tweezers immediately. Be sure to watch the affected area for infection. You can also use flea and tick control products available at most pet supply stores and your veterinarian’s office. 

Preventing Infestation

There are many techniques you can use to prevent the occurrence of fleas or ticks.  While these measures will not completely end your chances of encounters with these bugs, they will help reduce the possibility of an infestation.  Inspecting your pet when it returns from being outdoors will help you find the insects early.

The ASPCA advises that “using a flea comb on your dog and washing his bedding once a week will go a long way toward controlling flea infestation. Also, it is important to treat your yard as thoroughly as your house. Concentrate on shady areas where fleas live, and use an insecticide for nematodes, microscopic worms that kill flea larvae.”  (http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-fleas.aspx)