Veterinary Clinic in Hermitage Warns Pet Owners About Fleas

HERMITAGE, Tenn., Oct. 28, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lebanon Road Animal Hospital is educating pet owners about the best ways to keep their pets flea-free. According to veterinarian Dr. Kay Baker, monthly medicated prevention is key to stopping fleas from turning a pet into a parasite host. Fleas are the leading cause for dermatological allergies in dogs and they can also transmit intestinal worms. Without prevention, fleas can easily spread from one dog to the carpeting, bedding and upholstery in a house. Topical or oral flea medications are an affordable alternative to the expense and hassle of treating pets and houses for fleas.

Hermitage veterinarians Dr. Kay Baker, Dr. Ben Baker and Dr. Hope Wright are warning pet owners about the dangers of fleas.

"Fleas are more than just a pesky annoyance," said Dr. Kay Baker. "These parasites can cause intestinal worms and other health problems. If a dog becomes a host for fleas, then these fleas can easily spread to bedding, carpeting and upholstery. Eradication is difficult and expensive. Prevention is affordable, easy, and an important part of pet care."

Dogs are extremely allergic to fleas. According to the veterinarians, the bite of a single flea can trigger a painful dog rash and an allergic reaction that may last up to three weeks. Itchy or irritated skin may be symptomatic of a dog rash caused by fleas.

Fleas are also carriers for tapeworm larvae. If a dog ingests a flea, the dog can become infected with tapeworms. These worms can reach between 4" to 6" in the small intestine. They can only be treated with dewormer medication from a veterinarian.

The veterinarians are also reminding pet owners that flea prevention does not stop in the fall or winter; it is an important part of year-round Hermitage pet care.

"Unfortunately, some pet owners may discontinue flea treatment during winter," said Dr. Ben Baker. "They then wonder why their dog gets a bad case of fleas. Medicated prevention must be administered every month, even during the winter. It is important to establish a prevention routine and stick to it."

The veterinary clinic carries both oral and topical flea prevention treatments. Flea prevention options include a monthly treatment such as Frontline Tritak, Trifexis®, Advantage Multi® and Certifect.

"We strongly recommend purchasing flea prevention products through your veterinary clinic rather than over the counter," said Dr. Wright. "The best way to manage fleas is to find out what products your veterinarian recommends for your pet's lifestyle needs. Many over-the-counter products contain synthetic pyrethrins as the active ingredient. Fleas are resistant to pyrethrins, so these products are less effective."

Pet owners may learn more about flea prevention and treatment by contacting Lebanon Road Animal Hospital. The veterinary clinic provides routine wellness pet care, pet dermatology, pet acupuncture, dog vaccinations and pet boarding.

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