FLEAS & TICKS
 Fleas are blood-feeding insect parasites that can infest many species of mammals. Flea infestation is among one of the most common medical problems we see, and pets can suffer greatly from this condition. Flea bites trigger severe allergic reactions in some pets. The intense itching caused by flea infestation causes pets to scratch and bite themselves. This can lead to skin wounds, skin infections, and general misery for your pet. Even if your pet is not allergic to flea bites, the parasites can carry diseases such as tapeworms and bartonellosis (or cat-scratch disease").
Fleas are found in every region of the United States. There are over 2,200 flea species worldwide, but by far the most prevalent species infesting dogs and cats in the United States is the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis.
Today, Americans spend nearly $1 billion on flea products for their dogs. Yet, an estimated 46 percent of all dogs in this country suffer from some level of flea infestation. Given this startling fact, it’s easy to see why your pet can be exposed to these blood-sucking parasites when you least expect it.
Depending on where you live and the time of year, your pet can encounter fleas in a variety of locations, including:
· Your yard
· Public parks
· Beaches
· Playgrounds
· Wooded areas
· Even your own living room
Flea infestations are acquired from a contaminated environment – and areas can become contaminated very quickly! A flea may begin feeding within seconds after emerging from its cocoon. Within 24 hours of taking its first blood meal, a flea can begin laying eggs at a rate of 40 to 50 per day, infesting your entire home.
Contrary to popular belief, most flea infestations are not acquired from other pets. When fleas have found a host (such as a dog or a cat), they stay on that host until the environment becomes inhospitable or they are groomed off, die naturally or killed by treatment with an effective flea product.
The goals of flea control:
- Eliminate fleas on your dog or cat - Talk with our trained staff on products you may use to use safly on your pet.
- Eliminate fleas in your home - The most effective means for severe environmental flea infestations is the use of a pest management specialist (exterminator). Steam cleaning (not shampooing) is also extremely effective at killing pre-adult flea stages. Other simple steps include vacuuming frequently and the use of premise sprays, foggers, bombs or aerosols. Launder bedding, blankets, pillows and throws weekly. Treat all pets in the household with an approved flea product.
- Prevent future reinfestations - Talk with our trained staff on products you may use to use safly on your pet.
 Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that can infest many species of mammals. These parasites can carry disease such as lyme, ehrlichiosis, rocky mountain spotted fever and tick-borne relapsing fever.
Ear mites are tiny crab like parasites, if left untreated, can cause a bacterial and yeast infections and, in extreme cases, rupture of the ear drum leading to seizures and deafness. Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are the most common cause of outer-ear inflammation in cats - especially kittens and young cats. Frequent ear scratching and head shaking are the most often seen symptoms. Ear Mites are a common occurrence in pets and animals. Due to their ease and speed of spread, they can be transmitted extremely quickly between animals.
Ask us today to start you on a flea and tick control program designed for you pet!
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