• Monday, October 16th, 2023
• By John Condon - Poop2Scoop

Fleas and ticks are common parasites that can infest your pets and cause them various health problems. They can also transmit diseases to humans and other animals. Therefore, it is important to prevent and control flea and tick infestations in your yard, where your pets spend a lot of time.

Fleas are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They can jump up to 100 times their body length and can infest any animal with fur or feathers. Fleas can cause itching, irritation, allergic reactions, anemia, and skin infections in your pets. They can also carry tapeworms, which can infect your pets if they swallow a flea while grooming.

Ticks are arachnids that attach themselves to the skin of animals and humans and suck their blood. They can be found in grassy, wooded, or brushy areas. Ticks can cause irritation, inflammation, anemia, and paralysis in your pets. They can also transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis.

To protect your pets from fleas and ticks, you need to take some steps to control these parasites in your yard. Here are some tips:

• Keep your lawn mowed and trimmed to reduce the hiding places for fleas and ticks.
• Remove any leaf litter, brush piles, or debris that can provide shelter for fleas and ticks.
• Apply pesticides or natural repellents to your yard according to the label instructions and safety precautions. You can use products that contain pyrethrins, permethrin, or cedar oil to kill or repel fleas and ticks. You can also use diatomaceous earth, which is a natural substance that dehydrates and kills fleas and ticks.
• Treat your pets with flea and tick prevention products such as collars, sprays, shampoos, or spot-on treatments. You can consult your veterinarian for the best option for your pets. You should also check your pets regularly for any signs of fleas or ticks and remove them promptly with a fine-toothed comb or tweezers.
• Wash your pets’ bedding, toys, and accessories frequently in hot water and detergent to kill any flea eggs or larvae.
• Vacuum your carpets, rugs, furniture, and floors regularly to remove any flea eggs or larvae.
• Dispose of any vacuum bags or filters in a sealed plastic bag to prevent reinfestation.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of flea and tick infestations in your yard and protect your pets from these harmful parasites. Flea and tick control is not only beneficial for your pets’ health but also for yours and your family’s. Remember to always consult your veterinarian for any questions or concerns regarding flea and tick prevention and treatment for your pets.