There are all kinds of possible health issues you might run into with your pets. As a responsible pet owner, it’s your job to deal with them effectively. Some of these issues might also be dependent on where you live. While fleas are a potential problem everywhere, you can only find ticks in specific areas of the country, and that includes Tampa. Here’s how you can deal with fleas and ticks in Tampa.
How to Identify Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks are both small animals that you might find on your pets. Ticks, however, attach to a host and feed from it, while fleas jump around and focus primarily on laying eggs, while feeding on their host from time to time. Here are some other ways to identify fleas and ticks:
● Ticks have a flat, oval-shaped body, ranging from the size of a pinhead to the size of a small grape; fleas have slender, elongated bodies one to three millimeters in length
● Ticks can live on humans and pets, while fleas do not live on humans
● You may see ticks in grassy, wooded areas, while fleas are more likely to inhabit areas where hosts rest and sleep, like bedding, carpets, and upholstery
Managing a Flea or Tick Infestation
The best way to manage issues with fleas and ticks is to talk to an expert. While there are some potential “home remedies” that you might see suggested, these remedies may not work as well as professional fixes. Especially when it comes to fleas, you need to kill the eggs, as well, or the fleas will simply come back. If you’re already dealing with fleas and ticks, talk to an expert to learn how to manage them.
How to Prevent Flea or Tick Infestations in the First Place
The best way to deal with flea and tick infestations is to prevent the problem. You can prevent these infestations with these steps:
● Limit the amount of time your pet spends outside, and check for ticks and fleas when you come indoors
● Bathe and brush your pets regularly
● Know what fleas and ticks look like, and perform checks on a regular basis
● Sweep or vacuum frequently
Looking Out for Flea and Tick-Related Illnesses
Fleas and ticks can both result in serious illnesses. It’s important that you know the warning signs of flea and tick-related illnesses, especially in pets. These warning signs can include fatigue, joint pain, drowsiness, and general lethargy. If you’re ever worried that your pet is experiencing illness symptoms, especially if you’ve previously noticed fleas and ticks on your pet, it’s important to talk to a veterinarian.
Talk to a Veterinarian If you Have IssuesThe best way to make sure that your pets are staying safe and healthy is to keep an eye on your pets and talk to a veterinarian when you notice concerns. If you are dealing with flea or tick problems, your first step should be to find a vet in Tampa who can help you manage your pet’s overall health.
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