If your pets love spending time outside, check them daily for ticks
While Lyme disease isn’t directly transferable, keeping parasites away from your pet is crucial. If a tick somehow bites you, you may become infected. Here at Mount Carmel Hospital, we strongly believe in parasite prevention. We’re here to help you protect your pet against diseases and parasites so that they can live a healthy and full life. We care about the pet parents that bring in their canine companions and feline friends, as well. Keep yourself in the know. We have some vital information to share with you. Keep reading to learn how you can protect your pet from Lyme disease.
What is Lyme Disease?
Before explaining how to prevent Lyme disease, we will define it for you. Deer ticks carry a bacterium called “Borrelia burgdorferi.” If a deer tick bites a person or another animal, Lyme disease may develop, but there’s hope. When treated early, Lyme disease is curable through an antibiotic. Fever, loss of appetite, reduced energy, and swollen joints are all potential signs of this condition, among other symptoms. Now, here are ways that you can aid in parasite prevention.
Cater to Your Yard
Having a routine of mowing the lawn is essential. Routinely mowing the front and backyard makes your landscape less appealing to ticks. Pull tall weeds and remove leaf debris from under your shrubs and around the perimeter of your home. These areas, in particular, are where ticks love to hide. Also, securing outdoor trashcans will keep rodents away that carry deer ticks.
Use Bravecto
Bravecto is our #1, FDA-approved product that we recommend. It prevents parasites such as ticks and fleas, and you don’t have to worry about another refill for 12 weeks. For dogs, we administer it orally, through a chewable tablet. For cats, we apply it topically via a liquid.
Check Your Pet Each Day for Ticks
If you have a very active pet that likes to spend a lot of time outside, then make sure to check them for ticks daily. Feel them for bumps and part their fur so you can visibly see their skin. Pay close attention to under their legs, around their neck, and inside their ears. If you suspect that your pet may not be at their best, you can trust us to take care of them.
Here at Mount Carmel Animal Hospital, We’ll Treat Your Pets Like Family!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook!