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In order to keep our pet's safe during this warm weather it is very important to not only keep them up to date on vaccines, but keep them on heartworm and flea preventatives.
*Colorado is fortunate to have one of the lowest incidences of heartworm infection in the country. Unfortunately, the prevalence of infection has been on the rise over the last decade. Our warmer, moister seasons over the last few years may be partly responsible for the increase in heatworm disease we are seeing in Colorado … the more mosquitos that are present, the greater the threat of infection. If you are seeing mosquitos in your area, then there is a chance for your dog to get heartworms. Call the office to get your pets Heartworm Preventative, Heartguard Plus, at 303-233-5614.
*Fleas are nasty, blood-sucking, disease-transmitting little buggers. In Denver, there are a lot of myths about fleas, but you need to know the truth in order to protect your pets!
Myth #1: We don't have fleas in Colorado
This is the grand-daddy of all Denver flea myths! Sorry, but we certainly do. Fleas live year-round, both indoors and on wildlife, such as mice, bats, and foxes, all of which are abundant in Denver. After a mild, wet winter like the one just winding down, we're likely to have them in bountiful numbers!
Myth #2: I don’t have to worry about fleas during winter
Although you may not see them in the winter in cold climates, fleas can live comfortably in your house, as well as on wildlife. If your pet or your house had fleas during the warm months, you’re likely to have fleas during the winter months as well. If your pet goes outdoors and may have contact with squirrels, birds, or other wildlife, they can still get fleas.
Myth #3: If I don't see fleas, there aren't any
More than 90% of a flea population is in the egg, larval, or pupal (cocoon) stage, all of which take place off the pet, usually in carpet, bedding, or furniture, or shady areas in the yard where your pet (or other critters) hang out. By the time you see one or two, it’s certain that there are hundreds of eggs and immature stages in the environment.
Myth #4: Keeping my pet healthy will prevent fleas
While super-healthy pets are much less susceptible to parasites of all kinds, it isn't an iron-clad guarantee. Genetics and early environment aren't in your control, and these can have a substantial effect.
Myth #5: Keeping the house clean will prevent fleas
Unfortunately, fleas can infest even the most spotless house. They can enter on shoes, clothing, the dog, the cat...or just jump through the door under their own steam. Fleas like dark, warm, damp places and can thrive in basements, corners, and cracks. Carpets, bedding, pet beds, and upholstered furniture also make cozy homes for fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae.
Please visit the following link for veterinary information...
http://www.veterinarypartner.com is here to support your veterinarian and you in the care of your companion animals by providing reliable, up-to-date animal health information from the veterinarians and experts of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), the world's first and largest online veterinary database and community.
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