As a pet parent, one of your key responsibilities is protecting your canine companion from the common yet potentially harmful pests such as fleas, ticks, and worms.
With an abundance of information out there, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction.
In this article, we provide an in-depth look at some of the myths that circle this topic, what you need to do if your dog has caught a parasite, as well as how to ensure your furry bestie is protected from all the nasties that can cause irritation, illness and potentially death.
Myth 1: “My dog doesn’t go outside, so they’re safe.”
Fact: Even indoor dogs can be exposed to parasites through other animals or by simply going outside for a bathroom break. Where possible, fleas, ticks, and worms can and will find their way into your home and onto your pet!
Myth 2: “One treatment lasts a lifetime.”
Fact: Parasite treatments have varying durations of effectiveness. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations and/or the dosage and instructions on the packaging, and administer regular treatment to ensure your dog remains protected year-round.
Myth 3: “Natural or alternative treatments are as effective as pharmaceutical company medications.”
Fact: Medications made by pharmaceutical companies are typically more reliable and undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. Consult your vet for the best treatment option.
Myth 4: “If I am using a tick prevention product, my dog is guaranteed to be protected and that is all I need to do.”
Fact: Modern tick prevention products are amazing and the number of dogs suffering tick paralysis has declined dramatically in recent years, BUT none of the tick products kill 100% of ticks on 100% of dogs and ALL manufacturers recommend owners conduct manual ‘search and removal’ tick checks on their dogs every day to try and reduce the risk of paralysis tick even further.
Myth 5: “Once my dog is treated, they’re ‘immune’ to parasites.”
Fact: Treatments prevent or kill new infestations, but they don’t provide ‘immunity’. Your dog can still become exposed to parasites, so consistent prevention is key. One way to make it super easy to provide regular protection is through Pet Chemist, where you can have Simparica TRIO® auto-shipped out to you, so you stay on top of their treatment like clockwork.
Myth 6: “I can use a cat’s flea treatment on my dog.”
Fact: Cats and dogs are different species with distinct needs and metabolisms. Using a cat product on a dog can be dangerous, and vice versa, so always use treatments specifically formulated for your pet’s species. For cats, Revolution Plus® is the equivalent of a dog’s Simparica TRIO®, each providing the comprehensive protection you need but formulated specifically for each pet type.
Myth 7: “Parasite treatments are unnecessary in colder months.”
Fact: Although you’ll notice more reminders in the Spring and Summer seasons to make sure your pet’s parasite protection is up to date, you certainly need to be diligent all year round. Some parasites can still be active during the cooler months. Consult your vet to determine the best approach for your location and your dog’s needs.
Now, let’s touch on what to do if you notice a parasite on your dog.
Despite our best efforts, dogs can still pick up parasites if they come into contact with other animals or if you live in rural areas where they can thrive.
What to do when your dog has fleas
If you suspect that your dog might have fleas, the first step is to look for signs such as excessive scratching, red and irritated skin, or flea eggs. Wondering what flea eggs look like? See this article to get better acquainted with what to look for.
Once you’ve identified a flea infestation, immediate action is needed to prevent further discomfort to your pet and prevent an infestation of your home. Start with a flea treatment, like Simparica® or Simparica TRIO®, to eliminate fleas on your pet, then clean and treat your home to get rid of any remaining fleas and eggs.
Remember, it’s essential to regularly check your dogs for fleas, ticks, and signs of worms, and use preventative measures to protect them. Make sure to consult with your vet to determine the most suitable prevention and treatment plan for your dog.
What to do if your dogs has worms
In case your dog has worms, seek immediate veterinary attention, and make sure you get a comprehensive dewormer, not just for your dog, but your whole household as they can spread from dogs to people and vice versa. Administering a broad-spectrum dewormer like Simparica TRIO® can help treat and control intestinal worms.
What to do if you find a tick on your dog
If your dog has a tick, immediate action is crucial to prevent potential diseases. Start by using a pair of tweezers or a specialised tick removal tool to carefully remove the tick. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out with a steady, slow motion.
Do not twist or jerk the tick as this may leave its mouthparts embedded in your pet’s skin – although don’t stress if that happens, as the tick is at least dead. After removal, clean the area with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic. Monitor the area for several days for any signs of infection. And don’t forget to check for further ticks, there may be more. Additionally, start your pet on tick and flea treatment immediately, and continue to check your dog for more ticks every day.
Additionally, start your pet on tick and flea treatment immediately. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about any aspect of tick removal or if your dog exhibits signs of illness after a tick bite.
What is the best flea, tick, and worm treatment for dogs?
When it comes to choosing the best flea, tick, and worm treatment for dogs, Simparica TRIO® stands out due to its broad-spectrum effectiveness. It not only kills fleas and ticks but also protects against heartworms, mange and mites, and intestinal worms, all in a single, super-tasty monthly chew.
Its fast-acting formula starts working within hours of administration and provides protection for an entire month. And it’s one of the easiest parasite treatments to administer! What’s best is that it comes with a taste guarantee. Because it’s a liver flavoured chew, your dog will think it’s a treat!
Where is the cheapest flea, tick and worm treatment for dogs?
Finding affordable parasite control treatments for your dog is important, but so is ensuring the product’s quality and effectiveness. Pet Chemist Online offers the best of both worlds. They offer high-quality, vet-approved products (including Simparica TRIO®) at competitive prices.
They also offer a ‘subscribe & save’ program called Autoship which, in some cases, can save you money but also ensures that you never forget your dog’s monthly treatment.
When it comes to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy, proper parasite control is a must.
Remember: taking the right preventative measures today can save your dog from discomfort and potential health issues in the future. So stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep your canine companions parasite-free!
If you love your dog, it’s crucial to stay on top of parasite prevention by consistently administering these treatments and monitoring your dog for signs of infestation. Consult with your vet if you need help to tailor the best protection plan for your pet.
