Dogs and outdoor cats are happy to be outside. The weather is spectacular in Upstate New York. The cool morning breeze turns into warm and sunny afternoons. While our pets play in the yard and enjoy long walks, pests may be hopping along for the ride. Let’s talk about pests that your pets may bring home.
Dogs are fun-loving and oblivious playing in the yard. Cats are hunters and bring their ‘kill’ onto your deck, porch, or even in your back door. Their prize carries disease and pests and exposes other household pets, children, and your home.
Fleas are skilled hitchhikers.
As pet ‘moms and dads,” we are aware of the dangers of fleas. According to petmd.com,
These small brown insects hide in cool, shady areas among shrubs, leaves, and trees until a host (like your dog) passes by. The flea(s) then jump on your dog and are brought into your home, quickly becoming a menace. In fact, according to the American Animal Hospital Association, just one flea can multiply to 1,000 fleas in your home in just 21 days. Suddenly you and your dog are itching, scratching, and picking at scabs. Even worse, fleas can bring about tapeworms and other serious diseases. Save yourself the headache and prevent infestations before they start by using a flea preventive for dogs. They come in various forms to suit you and your pet’s preferences, including flea collars, spot-ons, and even oral medications.
The dangers of ticks should not be dismissed.
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Ticks are very diligent and patient. They thrive in and around your home quite inconspicuously. They are most likely not taking up residence in the middle of a sun-exposed lawn. Ticks can be found:
- In wooded areas, state parks, and hiking trails
- On or around heavily weeded and tall grassy areas
- In our yards around unraked leaves, unkept beds, and bushes
- In deep grass- keep your lawn and bushes trimmed
- On host animals such as deer, squirrels, and mice
- In the garbage, discarded food, and birdseed.
Ticks also love to hang around shady and wooded areas, waiting for an unsuspecting host (like your dog) to get close enough to attach to. Once attached, tick(s) feed on the host’s blood (which can be any mammal, including you!) and can transmit deadly diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and babesiosis from just a single bite. Contrary to what some may think, ticks can be a year-long problem. Protect your dog by treating him or her with a tick preventive. Like flea preventives, they come in various forms, including collars, spot-ons, and oral medications. Some even protect against ticks and fleas. (petmd.com)
Mosquitoes and heartworms
Mosquito bites!
Heartworms, which are spread through mosquitoes that carry the infective larvae, are a much deadlier issue for your dog. Heartworm larvae migrate from the bite wound through the dog’s body until they reach the heart and blood vessels of the lungs. Once mature, adult heartworms can grow to be about 12 inches long and cause significant mechanical blockage to the normal flow of blood. Depending on the severity of the disease, it can even lead to death. There are several heartworm preventives available. Consult your veterinarian to determine which is best for your dog. (petmd.com)
There are some ways to eliminate mosquitos from infesting your home. Keep it clean– plain and simple. Mosquitoes love water and damp, dark areas of debris. Mosquitoes can survive and breed in as little as a teaspoon of water.
- Remove standing, stagnant water wherever possible.
- Do not leave yard waste or dead foliage rotting in your yard and around your home.
- Check to ensure your screens are in good condition and there are no entry points near windows or doors.
- Remove old junk and properly dispose of trash and garbage.
- Display plants that repel mosquitoes: eucalyptus, mint, lavender, and marigolds!
Fireflies?!
Did you know that fireflies contain lucibufagins, which is the toxin that makes them glow? Fireflies can be poisonous to cats and dogs if ingested. Larger animals may experience an upset stomach, but eating a firefly can kill cats.
Please do not feed your pets outside and leave the dish!
So many pests are attracted to pet food. Ants, wasps, rodents, and other small wildlife would love to feast on your pet’s leftovers. If your pet’s bowls are close to an outside door, such as the kitchen near the deck sliding glass door, clean up all food and wash the bowl thoroughly. Keep an eye on the water dish too.
Frequently check and wash your pet’s bedding in hot water. Keeping your pet’s bedding, toys, and sleeping area clean is the first step. If your pets sleep with you, be vigilant and inspect them and your bedding regularly.
Treatment is available to keep your outdoor living area safe for family and pets.
When dealing with pesticides, always trust a professional. We offer green and organic products for ticks and mosquitoes upon request. Our technicians at Accurate Pest Control offer numerous methods for flea, tick, and mosquito management and removal, including:
- Granular applications: The most common method is an application of granular treatment to the lawn and surrounding brush.
- Fogging applications: Fogging applications to the brush perimeter is highly effective.
- One-time/weekly service. We offer one-time services before a big event. This can include both tick and mosquito services. We offer a one-time fogging service to help reduce the population before an event. We can also install dunks into bodies of water if applicable. Our technicians will review safe treatment options with you.
We recommend, at a minimum, a monthly treatment plan from May-September. We provide fogging services for your yard, brush perimeter, and dense landscaping. It is recommended to perform this service regularly throughout the summer months. Treatments on a consistent and regular basis are critical for success. Prices will be determined upon inspection.
We are here to protect you, your family, and your pets. Give us a quick call at 518-374-0357 or contact us to take a look and discuss treatment options with you.
Enjoy the sunshine and the signs of summer.
