OAKLAND PARK, Fla., Aug. 5, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oakland Park Animal Hospital announced that the vet clinic is now providing Comfortis, a medicated flea treatment and preventative. The once-monthly tablet will kill any adult fleas and minimize the likelihood of reinfestation. With summer flea season well underway, veterinarians Dr. Spencer Ratnoff and Dr. Gary Glickman are strongly urging pet owners to take proactive steps to prevent flea infestation.
"Comfortis offers safe, easy flea protection in a beef-flavored tablet," said Dr. Ratnoff, a veterinarian with Oakland Park Animal Hospital. "Just like with heartworm preventatives, Comfortis is given once every month to pets. Many owners find it easier to administer than monthly topical flea treatments. We strongly recommend the medication as an easy way to keep pets flea-free all year long."
In South Florida, fleas can be a year-round problem, and the hot summer months are a prime time for fleas to hatch. The veterinarian recommends that pet owners take proactive steps to protect all their pets, including younger animals, from fleas.
"Comfortis is safe for use with dogs and puppies 14 weeks or older," said Dr. Glickman. "The active ingredient, Spinosad, is derived from a naturally occurring soil microbe. Spinosad attacks the nervous system of parasites, killing adult fleas. While treatment can begin at anytime, we recommend starting Comfortis at the beginning of flea season, or as soon as possible."
Regular grooming is also important to keeping pets free from fleas. According to the vets, regular bathing prevents matted fur and dirty fur, which can become a breeding ground for fleas. The veterinary hospital provides Oakland park pet grooming services to help keep pets free from parasites.
"Grooming is one important weapon in the battle against fleas," said Dr. Ratnoff. "We recommend regular baths for all dogs, especially those who are active outside or regularly frequent dog parks or boarding facilities. This will help reduce the risk of flea problems."
Fleas are a top allergen for dogs and can also carry contagious illnesses. Once a dog has fleas, the veterinary hospital warned that the pet owner will face the added challenge of rooming fleas from his home. Fleas can hatch in sofas, carpets, bedding and towels.
"Completely cleaning a home after a flea infestation can be a huge nightmare," said Dr. Glickman. "Carpets need to be shampooed, all bedding and towels must be washed on high heat, and upholstery needs to be cleaned. It's all easier and less expensive to prevent fleas in the first place!"
Dr. Ratnoff and Dr. Glickman are encouraging pet owners to contact them at Oakland Park Animal Hospital with any questions they may have concerning flea prevention.
The animal vet hospital provides full service pet care for the greater Ft. Lauderdale community, including wellness exams, pet vaccinations, surgical care, urgent care, and pet boarding.