CANTON, Ga., May 19, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acres Mill Veterinary Clinic in Canton, GA is reminding pet owners about the importance of regular pet grooming for flea and tick prevention. Fleas and ticks transmit parasites and diseases that can cause serious illness in pets. During a grooming appointment, the professional groomers at Acres Mill Veterinary Clinic check for fleas and ticks. According to Canton veterinarian Dr. Michael Good, DVM, regular brushing and coat trimming will help prevent matted fur, keeping pets' coats healthy.
With spring flea and tick season under way, veterinarian Dr. Michael Good announced Canton grooming services designed to protect pets from these parasites. Regular pet grooming appointments, including bathing and coat trimming, can help keep a pet's coat healthy and reduce the likelihood of fleas and ticks, but only a parasiticide can control fleas.
"Our professional groomer works closely with our entire veterinary care team," said Dr. Good. "We consider professional grooming an important extension of our pet wellness services. Grooming care at our vet clinic goes beyond a simple 'bath and brush'; we include an entire physical exam checking for ticks, skin irritation and other skin conditions."
Before bathing, the groomer will look closely at a pet's skin for signs of fleas, ticks, mites, or other parasites. The groomer will also check for lumps, skin lesions, rashes or other symptoms of illness.
According to Dr. Good, dirty or matted pet hair can quickly become a breeding ground for fleas, ticks and other parasites. Regular bathing and trimming is essential, especially for pets with longer coats. Any discovery of fleas will need to be addressed promptly with a proper parasiticide recommended by the staff.
"Long fur can quickly become matted and dirty, especially if a pet spends a significant amount of time playing outside," said Dr. Good. "For this reason I recommend regular grooming appointments to keep pets looking and feeling their best."
Fleas and ticks are a serious problem for pets during spring and summer months in Georgia. Fleas can transmit worms and ticks carry serious illnesses including Lyme disease.
Dr. Good recommends a comprehensive approach to flea and tick prevention that includes a medicated preventative, grooming, and regular spot-checks.
"Even with medication, effective flea/tick prevention must include skin care and pet grooming," said Dr. Good. "Pets should still be checked regularly for fleas and ticks. As part of our commitment to superior pet care, our groomer will perform a full check during every pet grooming appointment."
Pet owners can also check their pet at home for fleas or ticks. When checking a dog, Dr. Good advises pet owners to have the dog stand over a white towel and run a fine-tooth comb through the fur, which will catch any fleas.
In addition to grooming, the veterinary hospital provides comprehensive vet services, including wellness exams, vaccinations, pet surgery and pet boarding. Pet owners may learn more at http://acresmillvet.com.