A happy, healthy spring for your dog

Spring is in the air, and it's time to get outside with your furry friend and enjoy the sunshine. However, with the change of season comes an increase in pests that can be harmful to your dog. While encountering the occasional bug is inevitable, certain springtime critters can significantly threaten your dog's health.

What bugs are dangerous to your dog?

As pet owners, it's important to remember that dogs are also susceptible to insect bites and stings, which can cause severe health issues. It's our responsibility to be mindful of these potential dangers and take appropriate measures to protect our furry companions. Here's a quick rundown of some of the most common bugs dangerous to dogs:

Ticks

Ticks are one of the most common bugs dangerous to dogs. These tiny creatures attach themselves to your dog's skin and can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and more. They are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass, and bushes. Check your dog’s fur, ears, toes, and collar for ticks after hiking or being in wooded areas. To prevent tick bites, keep your dog away from these areas, use a tick-preventative medication recommended by your veterinarian, and consider a tick prevention service. 

Fleas

Fleas can feed on your dog's blood, cause skin irritation and itching, and even transmit tapeworms if a dog ingests a flea or rodent that has a tapeworm. Fleas can be found in moist, shaded, cool places outdoors, carpets, furniture, and areas where animals rest and sleep. To help prevent flea infestations, regularly vacuum your home, wash your dog's bedding, and use a preventative medication recommended by your veterinarian. If you have a flea infestation, you may want to consider a professional flea control service. 

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are not only annoying to humans but also to dogs. These pests can transmit heartworms, a potentially fatal disease that can cause a range of symptoms, such as coughing, fatigue, and even heart failure. If left untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal for pets. That is why taking preventive measures, such as regular check-ups with a veterinarian and using appropriate medications, is critical to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and safe. You can also reduce the number of mosquitoes in your vicinity by hiring a professional mosquito control service to treat your yard.

Bees and wasps

During the spring season, bees and wasps pose a threat to dogs as they may cause severe allergic reactions if they sting them. Keep an eye on your dog when they are outside, and keep them away from areas where bees and wasps are present. If your dog does get stung, watch for signs of an allergic reaction and seek veterinary attention if necessary.

How to prevent bugs dangerous to dogs

By being mindful of potential hazards and taking preventative measures, you can ensure your dog has a great spring filled with fun and adventures! The good news is that there are several things you can do to shield your dog from bugs dangerous to dogs:

• Preventative medications: Talk to your veterinarian about choosing year-round medication to protect your dog.

• Regular inspections: After walks in grassy or wooded areas, thoroughly check your dog's fur for ticks and other hitchhikers.

• Know your surroundings: Be aware of common problem areas like tall grass and brush piles, and avoid letting your dog linger in those spots.

• A speedy response: If you notice signs of a bug bite, sting, or allergic reaction (such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or excessive itching), consult your veterinarian immediately.

• Professional pest control: Consult a professional pest control service like Western Exterminator. We offer various services to target and eliminate pests from your home and yard, creating a safer environment for your dog.

At Western Exterminator, our pest control services are designed to identify and eliminate potential pest issues in your home and yard, including bugs dangerous to dogs. Our team of experienced technicians will provide recommendations and use pest control methods to keep your dog safe from pests. Contact us today to learn more.