The veterinary care world has changed pretty drastically over the past few decades. Like many other sectors, we are enjoying amazing developments in technology, which help us provide our furry patients with the best care. One thing we’re not thrilled about? The rise of the tick. While ticks were once fairly rare in these parts, we now share our province with several, such as the Deer tick, American dog tick, Brown dog tick, and Lone Star tick, which came all the way from Texas. As you may know, these creepy crawlies can spread dangerous diseases. Here, a South London area vet offers some advice on protecting your canine buddy from them.

Parasite Control

Your most effective weapons in this fight are Fido’s parasite control products. There are several options to choose from these days, including topical drops, sprays, collars, and powders. Ask your vet for recommendations. Just don’t double up on these products. That could potentially expose your canine buddy to dangerous levels of pesticides.

Property Check

There are some things you can do to make your property less appealing to eight-legged invaders. (Not-so-fun fact: ticks are arachnids, and are more closely related to spiders than they are to fleas.) Ticks tend to lurk in fields and wooded areas. Keep your lawn mowed, and remove debris, such as dead branches. You may also want to consider putting a gravel path around your property. Ticks often turn back from  these open spaces. If you have bushes and trees around your home, trim them back regularly, so they don’t touch the walls of the house.

Cleaning

Vacuuming regularly can help capture any invaders that made it into your home. (This is also a good way to fight fleas off.) Don’t leave laundry on the floor: ticks find piles of clothing to be very appealing habitats. It will also help to regularly clean things like baseboard and window sills.

Tick Check

Last but not least, inspect both yourself and your canine buddy regularly. This is particularly important after you and Fido have been walking through woods or fields. If you do find one, use tweezers or a tick puller to remove it. Take a picture before you discard it: if symptoms do develop, it will be helpful to identify the little monster.

Does your pet need parasite control products? Call us, your South London area animal clinic, today!