Ah, spring! The time of year where flowers bloom, the sun is out, and when fleas & ticks start to come out of hibernation. A beautiful time of year that can be ruined by nagging pests like fleas & ticks. Stop them before they try to steal your sunshine.
Here’s a checklist of preventive actions you can take for your pet so pests don’t rain on your springtime parade:
Scoop your poop.
Did you know that parasites can hide in poop? Gross, right?! That’s why it is important to remove feces from your yard fast as intestinal parasites like roundworms can be hiding within. Not only is it your pet’s feces, but this includes any other wildlife droppings as well. With that being said, now is a great time to get your pet tested for intestinal parasites. This simple test can be done at your local veterinarian’s office.
Spring Into Preventative Care.
If you stopped using a flea and tick preventive over the winter months, talk with your veterinarian about the best options for all your pets based on their age and weight. Several options can provide weeks and/or months of protection: topicals, collars, sprays, orals, or powders. Always read the labels and follow the directions to avoid under or overdosing on your pets.
Spa Days Are A Must.
Bath time makes it easy to check for fleas and ticks. There are several shampoo types, so check with your veterinarian to decide the best options for your pet. Some shampoos are specially formulated to help with skin conditions, kill fleas and ticks, or provide odor removal.
New Place to Rest, No Pests.
All the outside comes in on your pet’s feet and fur. Washing their blankets and bedding helps prevent a good hiding place for fleas that can spread to indoor-only pets.
Tail-wagging workouts.
Pets and their owners can slow down during the winter months. Before heading back out to the dog park or gearing up for your favorite hike, check with your veterinarian about how often your pet should get exercise. This will vary depending on the breed, age, and weight of your furry friend.