Fleas and ticks are a source of annoyance and potential health threat in every part of the United States. Despite Indiana’s cold winters, it is possible to pick up fleas or ticks year-round. Ticks can transmit the most disease to dogs and humans in the nymph and adult stages. Any pet is at risk unless they are on a monthly preventative. It is possible for your pet and possibly your home to develop a serious flea infestation within just a few short weeks. Fleas and ticks can cause a variety of potential health issues for cats and dogs

• Skin irritation and infection
• Rashes and red inflamed skin
• Transmission of disease and illness to you and your pet
• Behavioral issues from constant scratching

Fleas can very itchy and annoying and are a primary cause of your dog or cat to scratch or dig at themselves. If your pet has flea allergic dermatitis, an allergy to flea’s saliva, the itch can be insatiable. Scratching and digging can lead to severe skin infections. Fleas can be difficult to detect because they are only about 1-2 millimeters in length. Preventing fleas and ticks is easier than the several month-long processes of treating an infestation due to the flea’s life cycle.

There are many different flea and tick preventatives on the market. Several years ago, flea collars, sprays, powders, and shampoos were the mainstay of flea control. These products are more toxic and less effective than the products we now recommend. The products we use are more selective for the nervous system of the fleas and ticks and allows for increased safety and potency. For this reason, we do not recommend the use of over the counter products. We will be happy to discuss a specific flea and tick program that is the best for your family. Recommended flea and tick products include.

Oral Tablets: These are a great choice for both prevention and treatment of fleas and ticks. Oral tablets have good palatability and make administration easier.

Topical Treatments: Some of the topical treatments for fleas and ticks also include the prevention and treatment of mosquitos.