Ticks and other parasites are a constant threat to our beloved pets and should be treated as such all year round. That's why tick treatment is so important. However, many pet owners remain unclear on just how often they should visit the vet for it.

Carrolltown Veterinary Hospital is a full-service animal clinic that has been serving the people and pets of Columbia, MD, for over 30 years. Tick treatments are just one of the many services they offer, and they have some advice on prevention that goes beyond the at-home application of topical and systemic medicines.

Tick Treatment & Your Veterinarian

Even if your pet spends most of its time indoors, that doesn't mean it’s completely safe from parasites. Ticks can also make their way into your house, so your pet should ideally be treated with preventive measures throughout the year. The best way to keep them safe is professional tick treatment from a veterinarian, which is something that can be administered as part of their routine checkup. 

How often should these checkups be performed? The answer varies depending on your pet's age and any pre-existing health conditions they may have. In the case of dogs, for instance, at least one physical exam a year is recommended for those under 10 years of age. Older dogs should have an exam at least once every six months since they're more prone to disease and injury. 

During the visit, your veterinarian will be able to provide tick treatment and recommend specific types of medicine for further treatment. In the meantime, you should check your pet for ticks on a regular basis. If they end up with a particularly severe infestation, you should take them in for emergency vet treatment.

Whether you're looking for effective tick treatment to prevent parasites or emergency assistance with a situation that has already escalated, you'll find the best pet care in the Columbia area at Carrolltown Veterinary Hospital. Visit them online for information on products and services, and call them at (410) 995-6880 to make an appointment.