With summer just around the corner, we want to remind cat and dog owners of the importance of protecting their pets from the misery of fleas, ticks and worms.
Although they are a year-round concern, parasites such as ticks and fleas are much more prevalent as the weather gets warmer and pets begin to spend more time outdoors.
Ticks can be potentially be very dangerous to animals, causing ehrlichia and lyme disease. Some pets can show milder flu-like symptoms but the concern is that others will be affected more seriously, with effects on red and white blood cells, which can be fatal if untreated.
More exotic ticks are now appearing on our UK shores making it even more important to ensure your pet is protected.
Pets can also get worms from fleas and ticks, while tapeworm, roundworm and hookworm can travel from pets to their owners and have potentially serious consequences for both.
I am urging owners to check their pets carefully and make sure all preventative treatments are up-to-date to combat the risk of potentially serious health problems.
Owners should regularly check their pet’s coat for any signs of ticks or fleas by running their fingers through the fur or, even better, by using a fine-toothed comb.
They should also be on the look-out for any excessive scratching, itching and biting, which are classic signs of a pest problem, along with scabs, hair loss, allergic reactions and pale gums.
We would encourage anyone who hasn’t already got preventative care in place to book an appointment with one of our vet nurses.
This will ensure they get expert advice and information about appropriate treatments to keep their pets in the best possible health this summer and beyond.
Charlie Forman
Clinical Director, Shires Vets
