Veterinary Medicine - March 2009 - (Page A2)

Hidden hot spots for fleas and ticks inety-five percent of flea stages occur in the environment, rather than on pets. That means the majority of fleas are under the radar, putting your clients’ pets at constant risk for exposure to fleas. Clients are often amazed to learn that pets can bring fleas and ticks into their home each time the pets enjoy a jaunt outside, says Nikki Tucker, lead receptionist for the Stanley Veterinary Clinic in Overland Park, Kansas. Additionally, by the time your clients notice fleas and ticks, an infestation may have already begun—which is why consistent prevention is important. Discuss these parasite hot spots to increase client compliance with a flea and tick control product. N Fleas and ticks don’t have to be visible to be a problem. Open clients’ eyes to the parasite hot spots both outside—and inside—their homes. Key tips 1. Fleas and ticks can pose a year-round threat because they’re always in the environment. 2. Neighbors’ pets and other animals can bring flea eggs into your yard. Flea eggs can fall off passing animals into the yard, mature to young adults and end up on clients’ pets. 3. Immature flea stages thrive in cool, shady places, like under the house, so clients should block pets’ access to these spots. 4. Along with regular application of a flea and tick control product, frequently washing pet possessions and vacuuming carpeting are helpful. onto the pet and begin the life cycle all over again. These fleas can sometimes hitchhike a ride on a pet owner’s clothing or shoes, putting even totally indoor pets at risk. Q Cool down: To help control ticks in their yards, encourage clients to regularly cut their grass, trim bushes, and promptly remove lawn clippings, mulch, and leaves. #2: Indoor bedding and carpeting Clients may be surprised to learn that the immature stages of fleas can exist in their pets’ bedding. Anything fibrous (e.g., sofa cushions, recliners, and carpets) are fair game for fleas to hide inside. Flea developmental stages can lay low for months before making a move and attacking clients’ pets. Q Cool down: If dealing with an infestation, vacuum often, Tucker says, and throw away vacuum bags outside immediately after use. Regularly washing pet bedding, rugs, and cushions as well as mopping floors will also help control fleas indoors. #1: The backyard A neighbor’s flea-infested cat need only scamper across the yard once to drop off a parasite package (eggs), Tucker says. These eggs develop into larvae and then pupae, which are poised to hatch into adult fleas at the first sign of movement or warmth. The adult fleas jump

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Veterinary Medicine - March 2009

Veterinary Medicine - March 2009 Contents Letters Correction Author Guidelines Hot Literature Idea Exchange A Challenging Case Local and Regional Anesthesia Techniques The Latest Scoop on Litter Product Preview CE Form/Advertiser Index Marketplace/Classifieds Mind Over Miller

Veterinary Medicine - March 2009

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