Indian Peaks Veterinary Hospital

As the summer arrives in Boulder, Colorado, residents and their furry companions eagerly embrace the sunny weather and outdoor activities. However, the heavy rainfall this season has paved the way for an unfortunate consequence: a potentially severe tick and mosquito season. In this blog post, we’ll explore the implications of increased precipitation on these pesky pests, the health risks they pose to our beloved pets, and offer valuable resources from the American Heartworm Association and the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC).

The Link Between Rainfall and Ticks/Mosquitoes:
Ticks and mosquitoes thrive in environments that offer ample moisture. Excessive rainfall creates a perfect breeding ground for these pests, enabling them to reproduce and populate at a faster rate. The moisture provides favorable conditions for their eggs, larvae, and pupae, increasing the overall population. Unfortunately, this means that Boulder could experience a surge in tick and mosquito activity throughout the season.

The Dangers for Our Pets:
While ticks and mosquitoes are a nuisance to humans, they pose an even greater threat to our four-legged friends. These tiny creatures are carriers of various diseases, including Lyme disease, heartworm disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. The risk of exposure to these diseases significantly rises during a robust tick and mosquito season.

Lyme disease, transmitted by infected ticks, can cause joint pain, lameness, fever, and fatigue in dogs. Similarly, heartworm disease, transmitted through mosquito bites, can lead to severe heart and lung damage if left untreated. Other tick-borne diseases, such as anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, can cause symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint pain.

Protecting Our Pets:
To safeguard our furry companions from the dangers of ticks and mosquitoes, it is essential to prioritize preventive measures. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

1. Regularly inspect and groom your pet: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your pet for ticks and promptly remove any that you find using tweezers or a tick removal tool. Regular grooming can help identify and eliminate ticks or fleas before they become a problem.
2. Minimize outdoor exposure during peak activity times: Ticks are most active during the warmest months, so try to limit your pet’s outdoor activities during peak tick and mosquito hours, typically early morning and late evening.
3. Keep your surroundings tick-free: Regularly mow your lawn, clear leaf piles, and maintain a clean outdoor environment to reduce tick habitats near your home.

Valuable Resources:
The American Heartworm Association (AHA) and the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) are excellent resources for pet owners seeking additional information on tick and mosquito prevention and control. These organizations provide valuable guidelines, educational materials, and recommendations for keeping our pets safe from vector-borne diseases.

• American Heartworm Association (AHA): Visit their website at www.heartwormsociety.org for comprehensive information on heartworm disease and prevention.
• Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC): The CAPC offers a wealth of resources regarding tick and mosquito control, including interactive maps tracking disease prevalence. Explore their website at www.capcvet.org for detailed guidance on parasite prevention.

We are committed to the health and well-being of your pets. Early prevention is key, and we understand the importance of preventive measures against ticks and mosquitoes. To make the process easier for pet owners, we offer convenient options for obtaining prevention prescriptions.

1. Call: You can simply give us a call at (303)938-9474. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you in scheduling an appointment or answering any questions you may have regarding tick and mosquito prevention.
2. Text: Alternatively, you can send us a text message at (303)938-9474. Texting provides a quick and convenient way to inquire about prevention prescriptions or other concerns you may have about your pet’s health.
3. PetDesk Request: For added convenience, you can also use the PetDesk app. PetDesk streamlines the communication process and allows you to conveniently request refills or schedule appointments with just a few taps on your smartphone.