MoreKeep 'em Off! Dealing with fleas and ticks
Fleas and ticks can really bug our furry companions.
With summer in full swing, it's time to consider ways to prevent, and treat, flea and tick issues. Of course, you should always consult your veterinarian before using any pest prevention, as every pet has different needs.
Prevention
When pests like fleas invade our homes, our first reaction is to get them out by any means.
Fleas and ticks can cause more problems than just their initial bite:
- Fleas can lead to excessive skin irritation and even stomach worms
- A home infestation is possible if fleas aren't dealt with quickly
- Fleas and ticks can carry diseases, some of which can affect you too
But, when we're thinking of remedies to a pest issue, is it worth considering all-natural solutions? We think so! According to a report by the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), most typical flea and tick products (collars, sprays, dusts, etc.) are registered as pesticides by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This means that many of those products can contain harmful chemicals that can affect the health of you and your companion. Sometimes, we can stop problems like these before they even start!
Consider regularly grooming and washing your pet (or let us help!), as well as their bedding and even their favorite spots to lay around. You may also consider using pesticides in your yard and garden to kill pest populations. Some gardening stores may also even carry worms that eat flea and pest larvae, and won't harm your garden! Also, be aware of the season/weather and your surroundings: some locales have higher pest populations at different times of year.
If you live in, or are traveling to, somewhere with lots of fleas and ticks, you may need to take extra steps to ensure your fuzzy companion isn't affected. You may live in an area that usually doesn't have flea and tick concerns. This year may be a little different in your region so it is still worthwhile to consider a discussion with your healthcare provider.
Treatment
Don't forget the vet! Your dog or cat may not be best friends with their veterinarian, but sometimes the doctor knows best. And their vet may be able to provide a prescription treatment, and may be able to inform you of which products to avoid. Your dog or cat's health, age, and even breed may determine what products are best for them. We may take every preventative measure in the world, but sometimes pests still bug us.
There are a number of ways to get fleas and ticks off our companions, if they're experiencing pest problems. Your local Wag N' Wash carries a variety of products made with natural ingredients: topical sprays, cleaning products, and more. We're always happy to help you and your companion!
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