CBS 3 Pet Project: Preventing Fleas And Ticks
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's National Mutt Day which is a perfect time to remind pet owners about summer ailments that can affect dogs no matter what breed.
"A lot of the external parasites that are out there in the fields as we take our dogs walking and to the parks can infect your pets," said PSPCA's head veterinarian Jeffrey Stupine. "Fleas can transmit tape worms so it's always a good idea to bring a fecal sample to your veterinarian when you come for your checkups and they can run a sample to identify if you have any parasites or worms inside of your dog."
Sometimes these parasites can be very stubborn to get rid of -- fleas especially are so small they can fit through the air holes in a screen door. As a result it's important for pet owners to remember that any animal or house can get fleas whether their house is dirty or very clean.
The good news though is that there are ways to prevent the pests with medicines or flea-resistant sprays.
There are also wearables like Seresto's flea collar that can give dogs up to eight months of protection against fleas and ticks.
Before pet owners run out to buy any of these products they must first consider their pet's lifestyle. Are they a city dog who will get walked on the sidewalk or do they have a backyard with trees? Plan on doing some hiking with your pup or taking them to the dog park?
You might want to think about getting them vaccinated against Lyme disease, look into the different brands of heart worm medication out there and whether the flea collar or oral medicine is the right defense for summer parasites like fleas and ticks.
And if you're unsure whether which medications or vaccines your pooch needs, the PSPCA can be a great resource.