It is true that parasites definitely peak during the late spring and summer months. You might think that means a bit of a parasite reprieve in the following months. The truth is, parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitos don’t have an off-season. This underscores the importance of year-round parasite prevention, and we’re here to help owners protect their pets.
They’re Always Around
Yes, the sheer volume of potential parasites may begin a downward trend after fall, but they continue to be a year-round risk to pet health and happiness. As temperatures start to fall, bugs try any way possible to survive, and find themselves attached to people and pets inside a warm, cozy home.
Warm, humid weather creates ideal conditions for parasites to reproduce and spread, but late summer and fall are not time for waning vigilance. Parasites continue to thrive, in part due to climate change, and the fact that we don’t often see freezing conditions in Oroville. Consequently, extending a pet’s parasite prevention strategy is crucial to their wellness.
Ticks: Always Watching
Ticks can be found throughout the year in Oroville and Butte County. The western blacklegged tick is common around Lake Oroville Recreation Area and Chico’s Bidwell Park. Known for spreading Lyme disease, it’s necessary to try to prevent issues with these parasites before they begin.
The best way to guard against a tick-borne illness in pets is through their parasite prevention medication. Thoroughly inspect their entire body after any time outdoors to spot any unwanted stowaways.
Fleas: Always Jumping
A full-fledged flea infestation is not just a nuisance, it can lead to serious health problems in pets. They can trigger flea allergy dermatitis, a highly itchy reaction to their saliva, which can then lead to secondary skin infection, pain, and overall misery.
They find themselves indoors where they can potentially lay thousands of eggs in upholstery and carpeting. Pet owners can take steps to limit fleas by routine laundering of bedding and toys, vacuuming, and pet grooming. But the best defense is going to be a pet’s year-round parasite prevention medication.
Mosquitoes: Always Buzzing
Mosquitoes can survive the cooler temperatures of winter by sheltering inside buildings. While their volume may go down, thanks to a short life cycle, mosquitoes can still transmit heartworm disease to pets throughout the winter.
Also, if pets do have a lapse in parasite medication during the winter, they can be extremely vulnerable to parasites that emerge before they get back on their medication. It’s worth mentioning that pets must have a heartworm test before going back on their medication.
Late Summer Pet Parasites
In addition to heartworm disease, there are other internal parasites to watch out for in the late summer, including roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms. When a pet isn’t on a year-round parasite prevention medication, they may have to be dewormed every year to wipe out worms, and reduce the chance of reinfection.
Whether a pet receives a monthly chewable or a long-lasting infection, we can assure you there’s a parasite prevention medication that will work for their lifestyle and health.
Please call Oroville Animal Health Center at (530) 533‑7513 with any questions or concerns regarding late summer pet parasites.