Dog Medicine to Protect your Pet from Fleas and Ticks

There are more than two thousands species and subspecies of fleas and each of them can cause misery if they happen to come in contact with your canine friend. Unfortunately, they often do. Infestation typically occurs while out on a walk or even while playing in the yard. Fleas are parasites, which mean they need to feed on a host to survive. They also have excellent leaping abilities that allow them to find new hosts in short order. But why do they pick on dogs?

Fleas and other pesky parasites like ticks feed on warm-blooded animals. They can consume up to fifteen times their own body weight in blood, which can cause serious health issues that we will discuss a bit later. Both pests are opportunistic and they will not leave a host unless they have to. In fact, they will generally feed and breed until they are evicted. In other words, flea and tick infestations will only get worse over time.

Common Diseases

Fleas and ticks not only drain our pets of blood, they also spread diseases while they’re doing it. When fleas feed, they inject a bit of their salvia into the skin of the host. These salivary injections are typically allergenic and may result in a serious allergic reaction. The most common skin allergy that is caused by fleas is called flea allergy dermatitis. In extreme cases, the allergy may result in hair loss, as pets scratch and bite at irritated areas in an attempt to relieve the pain.

Because they are parasites, fleas can also transmit tapeworms. But a far more common condition is simple anemia. When bloodsuckers are able to feast with impunity for protracted periods of time, even the strongest, most energetic dogs will begin to slow down. Parasitic anemia is particularly problematic in young puppies, since they do not have as much blood as full-grown dogs. The condition can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.
How about ticks? Contrary to popular belief, fleas and ticks are not close cousins or even related. Ticks are not insects, like fleas; they are arachnids, like scorpions, spiders, and mites. With that said, they are also parasites and they do spread disease. According to the experts, there are at least a dozen diseases that dogs and cats can get from ticks. Some of them are fatal, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Incessant scratching is the most common sign that your dog may have fleas. Of course, most dogs scratch and lick themselves quite frequently, which means owners may have to take an extra step and investigate. Fleas leave their droppings, i.e., their excrement, in a dog’s coat. Regular brushing with uncover these deposits and are a sure sign that your furry friend has fleas or ticks.

Infestations that trigger allergic reactions may result in more obvious or aggressive symptoms. An animal that is suffering from dermatitis may scratch at his skin so vigorously that it he may lose his hair or even draw blood. Scabs and inflamed or irritated patches of skins are cues that your pet may be infested with fleas or ticks.

Prevention

Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, human climates. Pet owners who reside in states or regions that have tropical or subtropical climates must keep on the qui vive for signs of infestation. This goes double when pets are allowed outdoors for hours each day. Regular grooming and shampooing is the best defense against pesky parasites.

Treatment

If you suspect infestation, consult your veterinarian ASAP. If he confirms your diagnosis, you can inquire about treatment options. Never make the assumption that your pet needs treatment on your own. Even more importantly, never use a new product on your pet unless it has been approved by your dog’s doctor. Many of the medications that are on the market today contain harsh chemicals that may do more harm than good. It is important to find a treatment plan that will safely and effectively obliterate the infestation.

Flea and tick treatment solutions are available in numerous forms, including shampoos, sprays, powders, and topical solutions. Some products target only adult fleas and others remove both the fleas and their eggs, which is what is needed to eradicate an infestation. Pet owners should also be sure to thoroughly clean their homes, since fleas and ticks do occasionally leave their hosts. All rugs, upholstery, and the pet’s bedding should be treated or sprayed. In cases of severe infestation, it may be necessary to use a fogger, which will require temporary evacuation.

Because many of these medications are prescription grade, they can cost a pretty penny. One simple and reliable way to save on flea and tick prevention is to purchase these shampoos, pills, and sprays from online pet pharmacies. All you need is a prescription from your veterinarian, access to the internet, and a credit card.