Understanding Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month
Understanding Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month
April is known as Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month. Because dogs frequently spend time outside, it is easy for them to run across ticks, which are known for spreading Lyme disease. If you are not familiar with the reasons for tick prevention, learn why this is so important for both you and your pet.
Understanding Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is transmitted when an infected tick bites an animal or person. If the tick is removed at any time up to 48 hours after biting, this greatly reduces the risk of contracting the disease.
Symptoms of Lyme disease can include a rash or bullseye-type ring on the skin. One downside is that if dogs have been outdoors, it is hard to know if a tick landed on them. Even dogs with short fur can easily conceal ticks, because they are small and do not grow to a larger and more visible size until they have been attached to the animal for some time.
Preventing Tickbourne Illness in Your Pet
If you are wondering how to prevent ticks from becoming a problem for you and your pets, it is important to check them regularly any time they have been outdoors, especially after a long walk or time in a heavily wooded area. Remove ticks right away, no matter what size they are.
If you believe ticks are congregating in your yard, reducing coverage, such as dead leaves or long grass, can help. Getting rid of any garbage and discouraging certain types of wildlife from showing up makes a difference. Finally, seeking out a medication that is designed to prevent ticks from attaching to your dog can cut down the number that your pet brings in.
Lyme disease is preventable and avoidable. Checking your dog regularly for ticks is the best line of defense, along with seeking a preventative medication. This allows both you and your pet to enjoy time in the great outdoors without worrying about bringing unwanted pests home.
Waipahu Waikele
Kailua
Pet Specialists of Hawaii
Powered by:
