As we transition from the cold winter months to the warmer days of spring and summer, pet owners need to be mindful of the potential risks posed by heartworm, fleas, and ticks. It’s a fun time of year, but it’s also a time when these parasites become more active and begin to look for their first host. Pet owners are encouraged to take preventive measures, especially between the months of March and May and continuing through to the end of November, depending on the weather.
Gone are the days when pet owners were told that prevention was only necessary for pets running through high, grassy fields. Recent research has shown that these parasites and insects are becoming increasingly common even in the backyard of pet owners. The incidence of these pests is on the rise, and they are becoming more adept at attaching themselves to animals, or even coming into the home. As a result, veterinarians recommend that more pet owners consider preventive care for their furry friends.
One common preventive measure that your veterinarian may recommend is a 4DX Heart-Worm Snap Test, which is a small blood test that can be taken during a routine visit to the vet. The test results come back within minutes, and it helps determine if heartworm disease is present before starting any preventive care solutions. Veterinarians recommend this test annually, depending on the outdoor lifestyle of your pet.
Prevention is critical to protecting your pet from diseases or transmitted infections. It may involve eliminating the risk altogether or reducing the likelihood of harsh exposure. Either way, prevention is the key to keeping your pets safe, healthy, and away from pesky parasites.
Some of the risks your pet may face include but aren’t limited to the following:
Ticks: A very small parasite that embed their head into the skin of your pet. During this, the tick can transmit several diseases, depending on the species.
Infected Mosquitoes: A bite from an infected mosquito can transmit various infections such as heartworm, tularemia, or West Nile virus.
Fleas: These are known for carrying dangerous bacteria and diseases, with Bartonellosis being a common but harmful disease.
If you are considering preventive measures for your dog or cat, it is highly recommended to consult with your veterinarian and get prescribed a monthly medication that is specific to your pet’s weight, environment, or medical history. There are various options for preventive care, and some may be more beneficial for your pet than others. Each dose is specific to every pet depending on their weight, environment, or medical history.
In conclusion, as the warm and sunny days approach, we hope that you and your furry friend enjoy the outdoors without any worries. By taking preventive measures and working with your veterinarian, you can ensure that your pet stays healthy and free from harmful parasites and diseases.