Protect your dogs against the danger of mosquitoes this summer

With the year already heading towards longer warmer days, man’s best friend will again face a lesser-known summer hazard: mosquitoes.

Dog owners who understand the risk mosquitoes pose to the health and well-being of their dogs will be pleased to know that they can provide their furry friends with all-round protection simply and cost-effectively.

THE MOSQUITO RISK

Not many pet owners realize the extent of the risk mosquitoes pose to their dogs. Beyond an annoyance, mosquito bites can cause allergies and infections, as well as transmit serious diseases.

Your dog could suffer an allergic reaction to mosquito bites. Even a single mosquito bite can cause enough itch and irritation to result in excessive scratching or chewing at the skin. Although such an allergy often remains a local skin irritation, it could also, in severe cases, lead to a skin infection.

There have also been reports of dogs that contracted the West Nile virus through mosquito bites, developing fever and becoming lethargic. Heartworm disease, caused by the parasite (Dirofilaria immitis) is also transmitted through mosquito bites, and is endemic in many parts of Canada. Treatment of heartworm disease is complicated and expensive, so it is highly recommended to prevent it with veterinary-prescribed heartworm preventatives.

PROTECTING YOUR DOG

Fortunately for pet owners, protecting dogs against the dangers of mosquitoes is as simple as following these three steps.

1. Eliminate any standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed. Keep doors and windows closed to keep mosquitoes out. Grow citronella plants around the garden to keep the mosquitoes at bay.
2. Avoid walking your dog at dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are most active and steer clear of swamps, lakes and other areas infested with mosquitoes.
3. Never use human insect repellent on your dogs, as it is toxic to animals. Speak to your veterinarian about insect-repellent products made for dogs.
4. Talk to your veterinary healthcare team about heartworm prevention.