Ask a Vet

Flea and tick prevention is one of the simplest ways to protect your pet—but only if you know your facts.

What are the most common flea and tick prevention misconceptions? 1. Inside pets do not need prevention.

False. Inside pets still go out to potty; they may have housemates that may go in and out; and their owners definitely go in and out.

2. Flea and tick shampoos are

effective preventions. False.

Shampoos are only a temporary fix (they have no residual effect); therefore, a monthly/extended duration preventive should always be used. 3. Dog products can be used on the cat. False. Many of the products labeled for canines are toxic to cats. Read labels carefully and use only species-specific products. There are topical and oral preventions available for both species.

What are the early warning signs that your pet may have a flea problem?

The most common signs are (of course) Itching, but also hair loss, lethargy, fever, weight loss, abnormal bruising, pale mucus membranes, or shifting leg lameness.

What are the consequences of not properly protecting your pets?

There are several vector borne diseases transmitted to pets via fleas and ticks. Some of these are: Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and

Bartonellosis and Intestinal parasites. Tapeworms can also be transmitted to the pet via flea infestations. All of these conditions can be detrimental to the health of your dog or cat.

Are flea problems really worse in the spring and summer? Why?

Yes. Milder temperatures and humidity levels make for more favorable survival and reproductive conditions for both fleas and ticks. More favorable being the key words.

That does not mean they cannot and do not exist during the fall and winter months. Prevention is recommended year-round, especially in the southeast.

THE VETERINARIAN

Dr. Brandon McKim practices at Mercy Animal Hospital in Gardendale. He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Montevallo in 2000, followed by his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 2005. Since graduation, he has spent his time in small animal practice, where he has gained a wide array of experience in medicine and surgery with a special focus on orthopedic surgery. Dr. McKim is a native of Alabaster, Alabama, where he resides with his wife and daughters, as well as their dog, Newton and cat, Krispy.

COMING SOON!

This summer, Dr. McKim and Dr. Miranda Trammell (also a Mercy Animal Hospital veterinarian) will open Kent Farms Animal Hospital, a stateof-the-art, fully equipped veterinary hospital, boarding, grooming and daycare facility. For more information, visit www. kentfarmsanimalhospital. com