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Protecting Your Pet from Lyme Disease
April 1, 2021
April is Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month. It’s also International Guitar Month and National Decorating Month, but Lyme disease is definitely more up our alley. Lyme disease, as you may know, is transmitted by ticks. It’s zoonotic, which means that it can affect both you and your pet. It can also cause some very serious health issues for both you and Fido. A local Columbia, MD vet offers some advice on keeping your canine buddy safe in this article.
Parasite Prevention
First and foremost, be sure to keep up with your furry pal’s parasite control products. You can choose from a variety of products, including sprays, shampoos, collars, and topical drops. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.Avoid Tick Hotspots
While you don’t want to let ticks stop you from enjoying the Great Outdoors, they’re definitely something for you to be aware of. Ticks most often lurk in bushes and long grasses. Try to stick to lawns and trails that are well maintained. If you do go into fields, marshes, or wooded areas, wear thick jeans and long sleeves.Checks
Ticks need to be attached for 24 hours to spread Lyme. Get into the habit of checking your canine companion daily. This is easy to work into doggy cuddle time! Don’t forget to look beneath Fido’s collar and between his toes. If you do find a tick, use tweezers or a tick puller to remove it. Make sure you get the whole thing out! Take a picture of the little monster before you discard of it. This will come in handy if your pup does develop symptoms.Consider Vaccinations
There are vaccinations that will protect Fido from Lyme disease. However, these aren’t recommended for every dog. You’ll also need to keep up with booster shots. Ask your vet for more information.Landscaping
Keeping your property neat will also help keep ticks away. Trim shrubs back, so they don’t touch the walls or sides of your home. Mowing your lawn regularly will also help. If you have a garden, pick up any fallen produce right away. Otherwise, it will attract wild animals, which could be infested with ticks. Finally, pick up any debris, such as fallen branches. Ticks love to lurk in these! Do you need to get your canine pal started on parasite control? Contact us, your local Columbia, MD veterinary clinic, today!
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