Warm-Weather Pests That Can Hurt Your Pet

One of the downsides of warm-weather pests is that it presents a particular danger to your pet. That danger is outdoor pests. There’s always an uptick in infestations and infections caused by pests during the warmer months! Below, your veterinarian Gresham, OR tells you about the most common offenders and how to keep your animal friend safe.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are as much of a pest for your pet as they are for you. And since they can transmit dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, not to mention dangerous heartworms, it’s important to prevent bites. Keep your yard clean and tidy; remove sources of standing water that mosquitoes like to breed in. And make sure your pet is kept on a heartworm preventative—talk to your vet Gresham, OR if your pet is in need.

Parasitic Worms

Heartworms aren’t the only type of worm out there waiting to harm your pet. Whipworms, roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms… There are plenty of worms that can infest a pet. Left unchecked, a worm infestation can cause serious health problems. Your vet clinic Gresham, OR can fill you in on the details.

Fortunately, a good heartworm representative repels many of these common types of worms, in addition to heartworms themselves. Get in touch with your pet clinic Gresham, OR if your pet isn’t already set up with a heartworm medication.

Fleas

Fleas are some of the most common pests that harm our animal friends. And since fleas can quickly multiply and even jump to humans, it’s best to deal with the problem, fast. Talk to your veterinary clinic Gresham, OR as soon as you notice your pet itching more than usual. And prevent the problem in the first place with a quality flea-and-tick preventative. Then, you have nothing to worry about!

Ticks

Ticks are dangerous because they can transmit serious diseases. Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Ehrlichiosis are just a few examples. Often, you might not even know a tick has attached itself to your pet. They’re quite good at hiding in tight nooks and crannies, and your pet’s fur can make them even harder to find. It’s a good idea to check your pet whenever you return from the outdoors. Also, ask your animal hospital Gresham, OR for help if your pet needs a tick preventative.

Botflies

Botflies themselves might not hurt your pet. But they lay eggs that release maggots, and those maggots can infest your pet if Fido or Fluffy comes in contact with them. The maggots will burrow into your pet’s skin and start causing health problems! Ask your vets Gresham, OR for more insight into this infestation process.

Luckily, keeping your pet on preventatives like a heartworm medication and a flea-and-tick preventative should ward away botfly larvae. It’s time to call your pet clinic in Gresham, OR if your pet is in need. We’ll get your pet set up with the preventatives they need to stay healthy all year round. Whether it’s pest preventatives, essential vaccinations, or anything in between, your animal clinic Gresham, OR can help. Call the office today to schedule your pet’s next office visit. You’ll both be glad you did!