Since Whatcom County had such a mild winter, this summer could be high season for fleas. Those pesky fleas can lead to sick dogs—and they can also impact pet owners.
Fleas often cause mild to severe discomfort such as skin problems, itching, anemia, infections and other diseases if not prevented or maintained. Not cool, right?
So how do dogs get fleas anyway? They get them through contact with other animals also contact with fleas in the environment (trails, dog parks, tall grass).
Note: If your dog has fleas, please be courteous to others by keeping them away from social areas until they are flea-free.
According to the ASPCA, some signs your pet may have fleas are:
- Droppings or “flea dirt” in a dog’s coat–flea eggs on dog or in dog’s environment
- Allergic dermatitis
- Excessive scratching, licking or biting at skin
- Hair loss
- Scabs and hot spots
- Pale gums
- Tapeworms
When it comes to picking a flea control product, it’s best to contact your veterinarian—they can recommend a product that is waterproof, kills adult fleas and eggs, is safe around other animals and people, and is absorbed by his/her skin or taken orally. There are many options available and even a few all-natural versions you can try.
Flea treatment for your pet is a personal choice based on your concerns and the advice of your veterinarian. Make sure the product you chose is specific to your animal—read the label and follow directions carefully.
Being proactive with flea control, and your pet’s health, allows you and your pet to enjoy the summer days ahead!
At Rover Stay Over, you can rest assured your pet will be well taken care of by trained, professional and caring staff. We are an award-winning grooming and pet boarding facility in Whatcom County, as voted by the readers of The Lynden Tribune in 2014!
If you are planning a trip soon, or if you need a safe and fun place for your dog to stay while you work each day, contact us!