For over 40 years, Milford Animal Hospital has been helping pet owners throughout Clermont County keep their furry friends happy and healthy. Their team is dedicated to providing expert pet care services, whether you’re bringing your pet in for an annual wellness checkup, a dental cleaning, or surgery. Milford Animal Hospital also offers families advice about preventative steps they can take to protect their pet’s health between visits. 

The long, warm days of summer are the perfect time to play outdoors with your pet, but did you know your best friend needs skin protection the same way you do? Cats and dogs that spend time outdoors not only need sun protection, they also need your help to keep away pests like ticks, fleas, mites, and mosquitoes. Exposure to these common outdoor pests can lead to unpleasant itching for both pets and humans, and some pests can transmit serious illnesses.

Fortunately, preventing these itches and illnesses is as easy as a trip to your veterinarian. During your pet’s next wellness checkup, ask your vet which types of monthly preventative products are right for your pet. These products are not one-size-fits-all and need to be selected based on the age and size of your cat or dog. You will most likely need one pet care product to prevent fleas and ticks and another to prevent heartworm.

It is also important to visually inspect your pet’s skin after every outdoor adventure and immediately remove any fleas and ticks you find. When removing these pests, remember to use sturdy tweezers and work gently. Slowly tug at the flea or tick until it comes loose from your pet’s skin. This may take several minutes, but being patient is critical. Pulling too quickly may result in the pest’s head and mouth parts being left behind.

Using outdoor pesticides can help decrease the number of potentially hazardous pests on your property, but not all products are safe for use around animals. Before you buy any garden pesticide, read the label carefully to make sure it is safe for your family and pet. If any of your four-legged friend’s outdoor toys get sprayed, wash them thoroughly before giving them back to your pet to prevent pesticide ingestion. 

For compassionate pet care all year long, visit the team at Milford Animal Hospital. You can learn more about their services by visiting their website or by calling (513) 831-5530.