DURHAM, N.C., June 16, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Hope Animal Hospital in Durham, NC is reminding pet owners about the dangers of summer flea and tick season. According to veterinarian Dr. Soren Windram, pets need medicated protection to prevent health problems including worms, flea dermatitis, and tick-borne diseases, including Lyme Disease, ehrlichia and babesia. The vet clinic is also reminding pet owners to regularly check their pets for fleas and ticks. Dr. Windram says that regular spot checks and medication are the best way to keep pets free from fleas and ticks this summer.
Summer brings an increase in outdoor activity, along with an increase in fleas and ticks, says Durham veterinarian Dr. Soren Windram. He is reminding pet owners to take proactive steps to prevent fleas and ticks.
"Here in North Carolina, fleas and ticks are a year-round problem for pets – and summer is prime season," said Dr. Windram. "A single tick bite can lead to serious health problems including tick-borne diseases like Lyme Disease, babesia, and ehrlichia which we see frequently. The same is true for fleas – not only are they a pesky parasite, but they can also carry worms. Medicated prevention is essential to keeping pets flea and tick-free."
According to the veterinary hospital, a monthly preventative, such as a topical medication, is the best way to keep pets free from fleas and ticks.
"While at-home remedies are increasing in popularity, these remedies lack the power to kill existing pests and effectively keep future ones off of pets," said Dr. Windram. "A medicated preventative is the best choice for pets."
Even with a medicated preventative, the Chapel Hill veterinary hospital recommends pet owners check their pets regularly for fleas and ticks, especially following outdoor activity.
"After a day playing off leash, a quick spot-check is essential," said Dr. Windram.
The veterinarian recommends placing a white towel underneath a pet and gently running a comb through the pet's fur to identify fleas and ticks. Ticks should be removed with a sterilized pair of tweezers.
The Durham animal hospital says that regular pet grooming can also help prevent fleas and ticks. Matted or dirty fur can quickly become a breeding ground for these parasites. Regular baths helps to prevent fleas and ticks. Keeping a pet's fur trimmed and groomed also reduces the likelihood for flea and tick problems.
"Pet grooming helps to prevent flea and tick problems," said Dr. Windram. "Dirty, matted fur is like a 'welcome home' invitation for these pesky parasites. Keeping pets clean and properly groomed significantly reduces the likelihood of pests. Additionally, regular pet grooming makes it is easier to spot-check pets for fleas and ticks."
New Hope Animal Hospital provides pet wellness care for dogs and cats. Pet owners can learn more about these veterinary services, by contacting the Durham animal hospital at http://www.nhah.com/.