Series on Pet Preventative Health Care

As local retailers gear up with the latest spring fashions and sporting goods, I felt the need to remind Dublin Patch readers that it is time to review our preventative measures designed to improve our pet's health and quality of life. This will begin a series of blog posting that will begin with fleas, then tick and later heartworm / intestinal parasite control.  

I grew up in rural Upstate New York where the ground freezes and pets get a temporary reprieve from fleas. But here in California, because of our mild climate and high density population, pet's aren't so lucky. And fleas, though somewhat tranquil time of year, are anticipating the upcoming change in seasons just as much as we are! Fleas are bad news because not only do they bother the affected pet's (and occasional person's) skin as they crawl about and bite, but they cause, carry and transmit multiple diseases, of which some are threatening to pets and people.

As a Veterinarian, I'm surprised how often I see pets with fleas; especially when reliable flea products are so readily available. But reader beware: not all flea products are safe. Some of the most readily available products are actually poisonous. Touch based with your local Veterinarian about what products are advised and which are best avoided. Or check this link to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for more information (http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm169831.htm).

Flea preventative products can be divided into two categories: topical liquids and a newer generation of oral products (please note that collars or powders are not mentioned). Both types are very effective if used regularly. But practically speaking, most of the differences between the various forms are arguably slight at best.

It is important to understand that if your pet has fleas, that no single product is going the clear the problem with one dose. Fleas have a four-step life cycle which includes a very hardy, pre-adult, pupae stage which no pet-safe insecticides can really affect. You'll apply a single dose of flea product to your pet and eliminate the adults ('baby-makers') only to have the fleas repopulate your pet one to three months later after the single dose of flea product wears off. Hence, it is recommended to protect your pet year round. 

So in summary, in California it is advised that readers protect their pets from fleas year round and check with their local Veterinarian for a flea prevention plan custom designed for your pet and their lifestyle.

P.S. Dublin Patch readers should be aware that February is National Pet Dental Month (http://www.avma.org/animal_health/npdhm/default.asp). So check with you local Veterinarian about promotions and discounts associated with the nationwide effort to improve pet dental awareness.