Fleas and ticks are a common pet health problem for dogs and cats. Both carry a host of diseases that can be quite dangerous to your pet if they are not treated in the early stages. These creatures can also make themselves at home in your house and yard, making it a challenge to get rid of them once and for all.
Fleas
These tiny creatures will at the very least cause skin irritation and itching, and they can infect your pet with a host of potentially serious diseases.
* Flea Allergy Dermatitis – This skin irritation causes severe itching and biting, resulting in scabs and loss of hair in infected areas. The condition is caused by an allergic reaction to the flea’s saliva.
* Tapeworm – These parasites can be transmitted to both dogs and cats through fleas. Usual symptoms include itching around the anus and pieces of tapeworms showing up in feces.
Ticks
Ticks are small parasites that feed on their host by sucking its blood. Ticks can also transmit a number of diseases, including:
* Lyme Disease – This bacterial infection is characterized by fever, loss of appetite and enlarged lymph nodes. When properly diagnosed, Lyme Disease is easily treated with antibiotics.
* Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – This illness has some similar symptoms to Lyme Disease. If left untreated, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can result in permanent damage or even death.
The best way to treat problems is by preventing the problem before it begins.
Please see our featured flea and tick control products for dogs below plus check out our selection of flea and tick shampoos and combs for dogs.
Entries (RSS)