Treating a flea and tick infestation can be a costly and time consuming process and prevented by keeping your pet covered by preventatives. Pet flea and tick control is important to maintain year-round in Southern Maryland, fleas and ticks are active and biting at temperatures over 55 degrees! We have preventatives available that are safe, easy and effective in killing both fleas and ticks for dogs and cats 8 weeks of age and older.
Fleas don’t just stay on pets; they will infest your home and will you as well. Fleas can cause multiple issues ranging from minor to life threatening. They can cause severe itching, skin irritation, allergies, and can also transmit other parasites like tapeworms and other diseases. Itching, especially of the hind end and pepper-like specks of “dirt” in the hair can indicate a flea infestation.
These parasites aren’t just a nuisance; they can cause serious-and sometimes deadly-diseases, including Lyme disease, Rock Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and tick paralysis. Ticks must feed for several hours in order to transmit disease. To reduce to chance of infection, remove the tick promptly with tweezers, tissue or gloves and clean the area. If the pet exhibits a rash, sudden joint pain and lameness, fever, anorexia, or lethargy call to make an appointment as soon as possible. For additional information see the flea and tick article in our pet health library.