Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes aren’t just a summer problem! Warming temperatures mean year-round prevention is key to making sure your pet is protected from these pests or the diseases they may carry.

Don’t overlook the problems they can cause: Fleas often trigger dermatitis, tapeworm and hot spots; one tick bite can transmit numerous dangerous diseases and mosquitoes carry potentially deadly heartworm.

In addition to preventive medications, you should thoroughly check your pets for fleas and ticks on a daily basis if they’ve been outdoors. Although fleas and ticks can be anywhere on your pet’s body, they prefer posting up near the head, ears, neck and paws. You can spot evidence of fleas if you notice little black specks that resemble pepper or bits of dirt.

Both the incidence of Lyme disease from tick bites and heartworm from mosquitoes are on the rise around the country and in our region. Lyme disease, while rarely fatal, can cause irreversible kidney damage in some patients, especially retrievers. Heartworms are also treatable, but require 2-4 months of crate restriction to minimize the risk of life-threatening complications.

Prevention is always the best treatment! We carry the best options for flea, tick and heartworm preventive and your Pachaug Animal Hospital veterinarian can help you choose which one is right for your pet. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 860-376-2544.