3 Ways To Prevent Your Pet From Being Harmed By Ticks
Ticks are a disgusting pest that can seriously harm your pet. In addition to biting and drinking your pet's blood, ticks also frequently carry diseases that can harm your pet. They're also harder to remove and kill than fleas, so it's easy for pet owners to feel overwhelmed when trying to protect their pets from ticks. If you want to do what's right for your pet, read on to learn the three best ways to protect your pet from the harm ticks can cause.
Tick Control
The very first thing you should do is ensure that your pet is being treated with an anti-flea medication. While most pets are given anti-flea medications, not all anti-flea medications also protect pets from ticks. Take a careful look at the flea collar or topical you're using and make sure that it says it's effective against ticks. If it makes no mention of them, you can assume that it's not providing any protection from this particular variety of pest.
Your veterinarian will know what types of anti-tick medications will work best for your pet based on their species and the types of ticks in your area. Pick up the medication they suggest and follow their directions regarding application.
Lyme Vaccine
Ticks can carry a wide variety of diseases, but lyme disease is one of the most dangerous. Lyme disease can affect your pet's joints, heart, lungs, and internal organs, and it only takes one tick to transmit this dangerous disease to your pet.
The good news is, Lyme disease can be prevented with a simple vaccine. Lyme disease vaccines aren't typically administered as part of the basic vaccination package, so make sure to talk to your vet to ensure that your pet has received their Lyme vaccine shot.
Avoid Wooded Areas
Lastly, ticks are typically picked up in wooded areas by pets and their owners. You should make every effort to avoid these areas when taking your pet for walks, or if you allow them to go outside, take care to prevent them from entering these areas on their own.
If you must enter a wooded area with your pet, check them for ticks afterward. If you find one or more, you can either attempt to remove it yourself with a pair of tweezers or seek help from a veterinarian. Keep in mind that the longer the tick is on your pet, the higher the risk to your pet's health.
Ticks are a serious pest that should be avoided at all costs. If your pet hasn't received any protection from ticks in the past, there's no time like the present to begin a good habit to keep your pet's health and wellbeing safe.