Protect your Dog against Mosquitoes

Protect your dog against mosquitoes! It should be a priority, especially right here in Houston, Texas. After all, nobody likes to deal with the aggravation of a bunch of mosquito bites, right? Well, your dog is no different. However, aside from the aggravation from scratch, scratch, scratching, there are some serious health concerns that can result from a single mosquito bite.  While you may think the likelihood of dealing with any of these concerns may be slim, you should always err on the side of caution when it comes to the comfort and safety of your pets.  Keep reading to learn how to protect your dog against mosquitoes.

Protect your Dog against Mosquitoes and  Eliminate Infection

You might be thinking “suck it up buttercup”, when it comes to protecting your dog against a couple of mosquito bites.  Don’t’ think that way!  A mosquito bit is more than just an irritation from scratching.  In fact, all that scratching can be the result of allergies. You might even notice your dog becoming lethargic, as well as even vomiting or having diarrhea.  It is possible that your dog is allergic to mosquito bites.  You may notice him scratching his skin and chewing the affected area and even other areas of his body. This continued self-mutilation can result in hot spots and a localized infection, which could, in severe cases spread.  By spread, I don’t just mean to other areas of his skin. Severe infections can even travel to your dog’s organs and blood.

Protect your Dog against Mosquitoes and Prevent Heartworms

Heartworms can result from a single mosquito bite. Larvae left behind after a bite by a mosquito enters your dog’s blood stream.  The larvae, or baby worms, that are now in the blood stream will mature into adult heartworms over time.  These adult worms, if not caught early enough, will damage your dog’s organs.  Heart failure and lung disease may be the very unfortunate result of a single, seemingly harmless mosquito bite.  Your dog can go months without showing any symptoms of heartworm disease.

Start with a plan!    

Mosquito repellent 

Environmental mosquito repellent can aid in controlling mosquito infestations in and around your home, thereby reducing your dog’s exposure. Citronella or sandalwood is often found in products such as candles or torches that you can easily find at Lowes or Walmart.  The reach is limited, however, and is not fail proof.

A more fail proof product is mosquito repellent for pets.  While not 100 percent effective, there are products that can certainly help reduce the likelihood that your dog will be bit. K9 Advantix II is one such product. This products and other similar products work to kill mosquitoes on contact, unlike other products, like chewable tablets, that only kill the mosquito if it has bitten your dog.  This product in particular will also kill fleas, ticks, chewing lice and biting flies on contact as well. Natural products do exist and should always be carefully considered.  However, it is always advisable to seek guidance from your veterinary professionals anytime you expose your pet to any chemicals.

Reduce Exposure

Protect your dogs against mosquitoes is  by controlling your dog’s exposure to these pests! Consider how you maintain your shrubs and lawn. Trim your shrubs and lawn regularly as dark, cool spaces will invite mosquitos to come stay for a while.  Keep lights off on your property except when absolutely necessary as light attracts mosquitoes. Keep pets inside at dawn and dusk and reduce their exposure to water, especially standing water.  You might be tempted to take your pet to the lake with you, reconsider. Doing so increase the chances of him getting bitten. Also, eliminate the presence of standing water as it’s a breeding ground!

Protect your dog against mosquitos! It does take some time and effort. Take action now for peace of mind and a highly reduced chance your dog will be bitten in the long run.  Keep in mind that mosquito repellent is in no way a substitute a heartworm prevention plan.  Make it a point to discuss prevention with your veterinary professionals.