Pets
Dog and Cat Owners Should Watch for Fleas, Ticks
By
Sep 25, 2005, 12:48

(NUI) - Quality time with your pet can often mean hours of outdoor recreational activities. Long, leisurely walks, Frisbee fetching and camping are just a few of the ways you and your favorite four-legged friend can enjoy soaking up the fresh air.

However, for many animal lovers, spending a lot of time in the great outdoors can also raise questions and uncertainties pertaining to their pets' health and safety.

One common misconception surrounds who is at risk of contracting West Nile virus. In addressing whether West Nile virus can cause illness in dogs or cats, the American Veterinary Medical Association Web site states "rarely." To date, less than one in 10 million dogs and cats has shown signs of disease for West Nile virus.

Unfortunately, when it comes to flea- and tick-related diseases, the threat to animals is much greater.

"We are seeing an increase in flea and tick infestations nationwide," said Dr. Robin Downing, veterinarian at Windsor Veterinary Clinic in Colorado. "The best advice for pet owners is to protect their dogs and cats from fleas and ticks, particularly if they're going to be outside or if they're joining the family on vacation."

Among veterinarians' top concerns for dogs, in particular, is flea allergy dermatitis, the most

common cause of skin disease in dogs. It results from an allergic reaction to a fleabite, spurring intense itching and self-trauma, which can lead to hair loss and skin lesions.

Find yourself and your pet in an area known for deer ticks? Then watch out for Lyme disease, the most commonly diagnosed tick-borne disease in dogs. Infected dogs may exhibit fever, loss of appetite, fatigue and lymph node enlargement.

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent the transmission of such diseases. Protect your pet and your family with the following suggestions:

* Eliminate fleas from your pet's environment. Clean the areas where your pet often sleeps. Treat outdoor sleeping areas with insecticide.

* Ask your veterinarian about products like Frontline Plus. This topical, waterproof, once-a-month control for dogs and cats kills fleas and major disease-carrying ticks for one month.

* Check your pet for ticks after excursions outdoors, even if it's just a romp through the back yard. Remove ticks before they attach themselves and transmit harmful diseases.

Preventive measures and products, coupled with a vigilant eye, can help ensure good health for this outdoorsy member of the family. For more information, please visit www.frontline.com or www.avma.org.

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