PETS, TICKS and DISEASE
Did you know that a recent study by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) showed 70% of owners sleep with their pet in bed? As such, as you can imagine, good tick control means healthier pets and happier owners.
There are numerous species of ticks recognized in Manitoba and several stages that infest dogs. Different ticks are active at different times of the year. All ticks are difficult to kill. In general, the number and distribution of ticks is increasing and, as a result, the number of cases and diversity of tick-borne diseases is also increasing. Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis are the 2 most commonly recognized tick-borne diseases in Manitoba. By understanding tick biology and behaviour we can better and more successfully control the spread of these diseases.
To reduce the threat of tick-borne disease:
-Keep pets in low-tick areas to limit exposure. Keep dogs behind a fence in a well-designed, tick-safe area with short grass and little forestation. Cats should stay indoors. Check your pet frequently for ticks.
-Limit tick habitat: Remove leaf litter, burn debris, and keep a barrier between wooded area and yard.
-Exclude/discourage wildlife and remove debris close to home where rodents may nest.
-Vaccinate for Lyme disease in dogs that are at higher risk of tick infestation. Ask us for more details
-Use tick-preventive products and apply according to the calendar not just when ticks are seen. If we are seeing ticks on the dog, it may already be too late.
-For humans, wear light colored, secure clothing to prevent attachment. Use a repellant with permethrin or DEET.
The 2 most effective compounds for dogs effective against a broad spectrum of ticks in Manitoba are:
AMITRAZ: This is available in a tick-specific collar called PREVENTIC
PYRETHROIDS: This is available in Canada as a product called ADVANTIX.
**NOTE: Neither of these products is intended for use on cats**
If there is a cat present in the household, either product should be safe provided the cat does not groom the dog on a regular basis. It is recommended that the Advantix be applied in the evening and then the cat and dog be separated overnight. The Preventic collar can be attached inside the regular nylon dog collar to prevent chewing.
Hope you all have a Wonderful Spring!!
Don't forget to keep those Easter chocolates away from Fido!
See you soon to pick up your season's heartworm prevention!
Heartworm reminders are in the mail!!
