We love our pets, but we don’t love the little critters that might be sharing them. Not only are they unappealing but they can also cause serious health problems for our pets. This is why it is so important to keep our pets free from parasites. Ticks are becoming more common, even in downtown Toronto! Prevention is definitely the key to avoiding an infestation.
How can I tell if my dog has fleas or ticks?
Scratching, biting and chewing may be a sign that your dog has fleas or ticks. Fleas can be difficult to spot as they move quickly but they do leave behind a dark peppery substance in the fur. This is digested blood from the fleas. We call it “flea dirt”.
Ticks can sometimes be spotted once they attach and become engorged. However, ticks can be as small as a pinhead making them hard to spy in all that fur. Call us for assistance if you think your dog has fleas or ticks.
How can I prevent fleas and ticks on my dog?
Prevention is always simpler and more cost effective than treatment. We carry several preventative products to provide you with convenient options depending on whether you prefer oral or topical applications. We will be happy to make a product recommendation if you require assistance.
What are the treatment options for dogs who have ticks?
If you spot a tick, call us to arrange to have it safely removed as soon as possible by a veterinary professional. Please do not attempt to remove the tick yourself. If removed incorrectly, the tick’s mouth parts could remain under the skin and continue to cause harm to your pet.
If your dog is already on a tick preventative, you may notice that it can take up to 24 hours for the ticks to drop off. Contact us if you have any concerns about the effectiveness of the preventive product.
