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Plenty of pests pose health risks to humans, but there are also those that can be dangerous for other beloved family members— pets. All-American Pest Control, a pest management company servicing the greater Nashville, TN area, warns that summer is prime season for ticks and fleas, which pose serious health risks to pets.
Ticks are vectors of Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be transmitted to humans, but they can also cause tick paralysis in dogs. This can cause muscle weakness, loss of coordination and even death (if the chest muscles become paralyzed, this can cause respiratory failure).
Though often thought of as an itchy annoyance, fleas also pose a serious health threat to pets if left unchecked. Beyond the fact that they breed with lightning speed and quickly infest homes, fleas’ saliva can cause anemia, dermatitis and can transfer tapeworms.
“Fleas and ticks are especially problematic in the warmer months. Time spent playing outside with pets or walking in the woods or in tall grassy can put pets at risk for picking up these pests,” said Erin Richardson, Vice-President for All-American Pest Control. “It’s important for owners to carefully check their pets frequently throughout the season.”
The National Pest Management Association, a nonprofit organization committed to the protection of public health, food and property from household pests, offers these tips to help prevent fleas and ticks:
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Check pets frequently for fleas and flea dirt. Be aware of excessive scratching, licking and nibbling grooming behavior in pets. Avoid walking in tall grass where there is a greater chance of encountering
fleas and ticks.
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Avoid tick habitats such as low-growing brushy vegetation along the edge of the woods or a trail
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Bathe pets after walks or playtime with other animals.
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Wash pet bedding, collars and plush toys frequently.
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Wash bed linens and vacuum carpets, floors and furniture frequently.
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Empty vacuum bags in an outside receptacle.
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If you suspect an infestation, contact a licensed pest professional immediately to treat the problem.
To speak with a pest professional about how to reduce ticks and fleas in your yard, call All-American Pest Control today.
If you mention Dave Ramsey, you can get $30 off a yard treatment for fleas and ticks!