How Important Is Flea and Tick Prevention For Dogs?
WouterMany pet owners do not realize that fleas are far more harmful to dogs than most of us realize. They can spread various diseases to your dog, including Lyme disease and anemia. Additionally, fleas can cause skin conditions and allergies in your dog. They can also infect your dog’s ears and cause ear infections.
To prevent fleas and ticks, your dog must be thoroughly checked every day. You should perform tick checks every day if you live in an area where ticks are common, especially during tick season. Remember that it takes 12 hours for a tick bite to transmit anaplasma and 24 to 36 hours for Lyme disease to be transmitted from tick to dog.
Another important consideration is the time of year you choose to apply flea prevention products. In colder climates, fleas and ticks can be active all year round. Generally, the best time to apply flea prevention products is before the warmer months, so that your pet is protected throughout the year.
There are many commercial products available on the market that can help keep your dog and family safe. Essential oils are effective repellents. They can be added to shampoos, bandanas, and flea-fighting shampoos. However, it is important to know that essential oils are extremely potent and should be used with caution. One drop of an essential oil is about 75 times more potent than its herbal equivalent. Also, not all essential oils are safe for dogs.
