Dr. Amy’s Animal Corner: Ticks, Fleas & Mosquitoes – Oh My!

Posted on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024

Welcome to our new monthly blog series, Dr. Amy’s Animal Corner with Dr. Amy Brown, DVM. Students from the vet tech program dressed in scrubs holding a cat
Dr. Brown is the Facility Veterinarian for the Algonquin College Veterinary Learning Centre & Clinic and is a Professor in the Algonquin College Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Assistant Programs.

Each month, you will get a sneak peek into some of the information our students learn while studying in the Veterinary field, learn more about our Veterinary programs, and get the opportunity to check out the animals that we help facilitate for adoption.

With the summer months officially here, it’s an important time to be aware of ticks, fleas and mosquitoes – which can pose a significant risk to our furry friends!

Introduction
Ticks, fleas & mosquitoes are common parasites that affect both cats and dogs, posing significant health risks to our pets. In Ontario, these pests are a growing concern due to their increasing prevalence and the diseases they can transmit.

Ticks in Ontario
Ontario is home to several species of ticks, with the most common being the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis). The black-legged tick is particularly concerning as it can transmit Lyme disease. Ticks go through four life stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. They require a blood meal at each stage to progress, making pets a frequent target.

Risks and Diseases

  • Lyme Disease: Transmitted primarily by black-legged ticks, Lyme disease can cause fever, lameness, kidney issues, and even neurological problems in pets.
  • Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis: These bacterial infections can cause symptoms like fever, lethargy, and joint pain.

Fleas in Ontario

The most common flea affecting pets in Ontario is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which can infest both cats and dogs. Fleas undergo four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Fleas can lay hundreds of eggs in a short period, leading to rapid infestations.

Risks and Diseases

  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): A common allergic reaction to flea saliva, causing severe itching and skin infections.
  • Tapeworms: Fleas can carry tapeworm larvae, which pets can ingest during grooming, leading to intestinal infections.
  • Anemia: Severe flea infestations can cause significant blood loss, especially in young or small pets.

Mosquitoes in Ontario

In Ontario, various mosquito species can affect pets, including the common house mosquito (Culex pipiens) and the northern house mosquito (Culex restuans). These mosquitoes are known vectors for several diseases. Mosquitoes undergo four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. They lay their eggs in stagnant water, and the larvae and pupae develop in aquatic environments.

Risks and Diseases

  • Heartworm Disease: Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm disease can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs in pets.
  • West Nile Virus: Although less common in pets, this virus can cause neurological issues and other serious health problems.

Prevention Strategies

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Routine vet visits are crucial for early detection and prevention of tick and flea infestations. Vets can recommend appropriate preventive treatments and conduct thorough examinations.

Preventive Medications

There are various topical and oral medications available to prevent ticks and fleas. These treatments are usually administered monthly and are highly effective in controlling these pests. All pets should be on this medication year-round to prevent infections for themselves, but also infection of their human families.

Environmental Control

  • Yard Maintenance: Keeping the yard well-maintained by regularly mowing the lawn and removing leaf litter can reduce tick habitats.
  • Home Cleaning: Regularly vacuuming carpets, furniture, and pet bedding can help control flea populations. Washing pet bedding in hot water is also effective.

Tick Checks

After outdoor activities, thoroughly check pets for ticks, especially in areas like the neck, ears, and between the toes. Prompt removal of ticks can reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Treatment Options

Flea Treatments

  • Topical Treatments: Applied directly to the pet’s skin, these treatments kill fleas on contact.
  • Oral Medications: These are ingested by the pet and work by killing fleas when they bite.
  • Shampoos and Sprays: Useful for immediate relief from flea infestations but require frequent application.

Tick Treatments

  • Tick Collars: These collars release chemicals that repel and kill ticks. Unfortunately, these products are not 100% effective, especially if your pup is a frequent swimmer!
  • Spot-on Treatments: Applied to specific spots on the pet’s skin, once absorbed, provide full body protection.
  • Oral Medications: These are effective in killing ticks and can also prevent infestations.

Mosquito Treatments

  • Heartworm Preventives: These medications are administered monthly to prevent heartworm disease. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as heartworm disease can cost thousands to treat.
  • Environmental Treatments: Use mosquito control products in the yard to reduce mosquito populations

The good news is that a lot of products combine tick, flea and mosquito prevention so you don’t have to give picky pups multiple medications. Talk to your veterinarian about the best option for you and your pet!

Conclusion

Ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they pose serious health risks to pets. In Ontario, being vigilant about preventing these pests is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of your pets. Regular veterinary care, preventive medications, and environmental control are key strategies in keeping these parasites at bay. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your furry friends lead happy, healthy, and pest-free lives.

For more information, consult your veterinarian and stay updated on the latest tick, flea, and mosquito prevention and treatment options.

For further details on the Algonquin College Veterinary Technician program, Veterinary Assistant program, and our Pets for Adoption, please visit our website.


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