| Parasite Prevention For Dogs Avoid "The Big Three" - Fleas, Ticks & Mosquitoes
With warm weather comes the start of parasite season and the inevitable onslaught of “The Big Three”—fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Hunting dogs will inevitably feel the effects if you don’t take preventative measures to fight against parasites, especially since they spend time in areas where parasites are prevalent.
“Owners shouldn’t wait to protect their dog against fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, the most common parasites which can cut hunting trips short,” says Dr. Jeff Werber, DVM and former host of Animal Planet’s Petcetera. “I strongly encourage dog owners to visit their veterinarian and learn ways to prevent and protect their dogs from the discomfort and health risks associated with parasites.”
These pests will find their way to your dog for nourishment and only you--with the aid of your veterinarian--can control them. Whether in the woods or in town, without added protection, no dog, no matter how well-groomed or loved, is safe from the havoc these three parasites can wreak.
Ticks
Unfortunately, ticks are found in prime hunting locations — the woods, tall grass, weeds, and brushy areas. Woodlands, meadows and nearby recreational areas are alive with ticks waiting for a blood-meal from suitable hosts walking by including pets and people.
Tick-borne diseases can cause itching, pain, appetite loss, lethargy, fever, and swollen joints, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Ticks can carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tick species found in the U.S. can easily infest dogs in very large numbers.
Fleas
Not only are fleas carriers of dog tapeworm, but they can cause flea allergy dermatitis, a common allergic skin condition affecting pets. The uncontrollable itching and scratching associated with flea allergy dermatitis can be a major discomfort for dogs. Fleas are an unusually hearty species of parasites, able to pierce thick skin, suck blood and abundantly reproduce with great speed. In fact, just 10 female fleas may be able to multiply to more than 150,000 in only 30 days, according to the AVMA.
Mosquitoes
And it only gets worse. There are about 3,000 species of mosquitoes in the world, 150 of which can be found in the United States. While only the female mosquitoes are dangerous because they are the only ones to bite, it causes discomfort to pets, similar to the itching human’s experience.
K9 Advantix® protects dogs against three biting, disease-carrying parasites.
 | Mosquitoes — K9 Advantix® repels and kills mosquitoes before they can bite. |  | Ticks — K9 Advantix® repels and kills four species of ticks — Deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis), American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis), Lone Star ticks (Amblyomma americanum) and Brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). |  | Fleas — K9 Advantix® stops fleas from biting in less than 5 minutes. It kills 98-100% of fleas within 12 hours. Reinfesting fleas are killed within 2 hours. It also kills flea larvae in the dog’s surroundings. |
|
Providing a dog with easy-to-use products such as Advantage® flea control for dogs and triple-protection K9 Advantix® for dogs only, (both from Bayer Animal Health) is essential. These products are useful to kill these dangerous parasites, an important thing to consider when preparing for hunting season.
It’s not enough to merely kill the fleas, ticks and mosquitoes present today, but dog owners must prevent future bites, as well. “Each of the three types of parasites present their own kind of peril,” notes Dr. Werber, “which is why it’s important to protect your pet year-round by using products that are effective against them all.”
Warm Weather Dog Health Tips:
Dogs can suffer heatstroke, so keep your pet hydrated and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest time of the day.Visit your veterinarian regularly to keep your dog healthy.Reduce exposure to mosquitoes by avoiding walking at dawn and dusk (mosquito feeding times) and remove standing water from your property.Avoid extreme temperatures and never leave your pet in the car.Apply a monthly parasite preventative such as Advantage® flea control and K9 Advantix®, flea, tick and mosquito control.
Visit www.petparents.com for more information about parasite prevention, seasonal health tips and to find out how to get a FREE TUBE of Advantage® or K9 Advantix®.
| |
Manufacturers, Guides / Outfitters
Kennels and Trainers
When you advertise with us you know you are reaching a targeted audience with a desire to learn more about training / caring for hunting dogs and who have a proven track record of purchasing hunting dog related supplies. Download our Media Kit
