Winter Pests and our Pets

With winter approaching, we normally assume that our furry friends won’t battle with pests that can be troublesome in the hotter, summer months, like ticks and fleas.  But it’s a misconception. Even though it gets cold during winter, we also have lovely sunny days and flea eggs only need one sunny day to hatch!  Here are some two top tips on how to prevent a flea problem.

1.       Keep up-to-date with your pet’s regular veterinary-recommended tick and flea treatments. Make sure the product is proven to effectively kill fleas in all three stages of their life cycle: eggs, larvae and adults; providing effective protection over a sustained period. There are also water-tolerant products for dogs who love to take a dip in the pool. Not treating pets effectively for fleas can result in these pests jumping off your pets and laying eggs in the house and garden. It’s easier to prevent the problem than trying to solve it.  After treatment has been applied, make sure that you also clean your pet’s bedding and leave it out in the sun to dry.  If your pet’s bedding it too large to wash regularly, try vacuuming the bedding and their sleep area / kennel on a regular basis.

2.       Try to ensure that your garden is not a tick and flea paradise.  Knowing the type of environments that these pests thrive in can help you create a pest-free garden.  Fleas don’t enjoy being out in the open in sunny, bright spots.  They seek shady, sandy areas and places like damp woodpiles.  Ticks like long grass and weeds.  Keep the grass well trimmed and the garden as airy and weed-free as possible.

Needing more advice about ticks and fleas? Simply call one of Veterinary House’s branches and they’ll be happy to assist.