Wow…hard to believe that we are into May already! We hope everyone had a great Easter and are now planning for the beautiful summer we deserve! Before the weather turns really nice it is time to think about the ticks that are here. Yes, ticks like this cooler weather and are most active when it is between 4°C and 22°C. That is not to say that they disappear if it gets warmer……it is still cooler in the woods under the leaf mulch, but they are most active spring and fall. To learn more about these parasites and how they affect your pets, read our article on The truth on ticks.
At Peterborough West Animal hospital we are not only concerned with your pet’s health, but in the case of ticks knowing that there are ticks around alerts you to protect your human family members as well. Lyme disease is not spread from dogs to people. If your dog has or had ticks, or worse yet, tests positive for Lyme disease, it means you have the potential to be infected too.
At Peterborough West we are always looking for the best way to help our clients and their precious pets. This year we are so pleased to bring you an awesome pairing of topical products at a remarkable price. We have “Multi-Duo”. This is one box of Advantix© – Flea and Tick Protection and one box of Advantage Multi© – Heartworm Prevention as well as other internal parasite control. (Call us for pricing for your pet).
Our best recommendation – if your dog is going to be exposed to ticks it is best have them on Advantix© starting in March and continuing once a month through to November. (This is especially important if you travel to areas where ticks are endemic such as Kingston or along the St. Lawrence Seaway.) You would start Advantage Multi© June first and continue once a month for 6 months (June 1st to November 1st).
Another good option is to start Advantix© in March and doing 3 consecutive months (March, April May), start Advantage Multi© June first for 6 months (June – November), and start back using Advantix© again in September for 3 more months (September, October and November). This is sure to provide maximum protection when ticks are most active.
Note: always allow 48 hours between applications of these two products.
For more information about Advantix©, Advantage Multi©, Lyme disease, Heartworm, testing for both, or any other concerns you may have, please feel free to contact one of our knowledgeable team members for more information. We also offer specialized Pet Allergies and Veterinary Dermatology services for pets experiencing skin issues, which can sometimes be related to parasites or other environmental factors.
Pawsitively devoted to your best friend: 705-745-4800, [email protected]. Contact us, your local animal hospital in Peterborough, ON!