The best flea and tick control is prevention. Because both fleas and
ticks can carry disease and parasites, proper control can protect your
pet from Lyme Disease, Anaplasmosis, intestinal parasites, and other
conditions.
Fleas:
Fleas can be more than just a simple nuisance. They can cause allergic
reactions and skin irritations. With a single bite, a flea can infect
your pet with tapeworm. Flea control is important not just for your pet,
but also for your family's well being. Fleas bite humans too, and once
they are in your carpet and bedding, it can be a difficult problem to
resolve.
Persistent scratching is a sign that your pet has fleas. In a severe
case, you may even see the fleas on your pet. Flea dirt or droppings
will be easily visible if you part your pet's fur to the skin level.
In order to eradicate fleas from your pet, you must remove them from
your home. Regular vacuuming, while not the best solution, will help keep
flea populations low. Thoroughly vacuum your home, using your vacuum's
attachments to get in cracks and crevices. In severe infestations, steam
cleaning, or fogging your home may be necessary. Sounds like a
lot of work? The key is for your pet not to get fleas in the first
place.
Gehrman Animal Hospital recommends Frontline Plus© as a monthly
application from April through October (through November for hunting
dogs). To apply it, part the skin behind the back of your pet's neck and
empty the entire vial onto the skin. Within 24 hours, 98-100% of all
fleas and ticks on your pet will be eliminated. Because it is
incorporated into the oil layer of the skin, it is waterproof. It is
even safe for use on puppies and kittens. If you travel to warmer
climates in the winter then consider using Frontline year around.
Unlike some products on the market, Frontline Plus© attacks all life
stages of fleas and ticks. Each dose is effective for one month against
fleas and ticks. Flea collars and fleas sprays do not offer the same
comprehensive protection. Also, cats and dogs are different. Do
not use a dog product on your cat. The consequences may be
deadly.
Ticks:Ticks present a risk to your
pet throughout the warm months of spring through fall. Some species of
ticks are active at different times of the year, so it's important to
continue your tick control into the fall. Deer ticks, the carriers of
Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis, are seen in Minnesota in the months of
April through November.
In the Upper Midwest any tick bite has potential for disease. Common
tick borne diseases include
Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, and
ehrlichiosis. A monthly application of Frontline Plus© will kill ticks
present on your pet and provide residual protection.
To remove the tick, grab it with a pair of tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull
gently straight up. Avoid squeezing the body of the tick. Kill the tick in alcohol or
insecticide before disposing of. Wash the area with a soap and water. If
the site of the bite becomes red or swollen,
contact us.