No matter what type of pet you own, some of these pests may cause concern for you and your family.
Fleas
Fleas can make your pets scratch, bite, and pick at the areas where they bite, and this can quickly create scabs that your pet will also scratch and bite. Additionally, fleas can bring diseases like tapeworms into your home. You do not want to ignore a flea problem. One flea can multiply up to 1,000 fleas in your home, so if you spot fleas, be sure to get a handle on the infestation immediately. Try a flea collar or a monthly flea treatment for your fur babies.
Ticks
Ticks will attach themselves onto any mammal (they feed off blood), and your pets are no exception. Ticks carry Lyme disease; Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis – all just from one bite. Ticks can be easily prevented, however, so it may be worth it to invest in a tick collar or a spot or medical treatment.
Mosquitos
Mosquitos are no good for anyone, human or pet. Mosquitos carry heartworms which are deadly to dogs. Mosquitos also carry a host of disease for humans, so be sure to try to keep mosquitos at bay. Empty any standing water from your yard, and fix any poor drainage. Also, if you live next to a body of water such as a river or lake, these are breeding grounds for the blood suckers.
Poisonous spiders
While we don’t have to worry about many poisonous spiders here in California, we do have black widows.
Black widows are probably one of the scariest soundings, and most frightening looking spiders one will see in the San Joaquin Valley. These terrifying spiders prefer dark spaces and will scare easily and often retreat if disturbed. Black widows pack a punch because they have large venomous glands, and their bites are harmful to pets and humans. The good news is that their bites are rarely fatal.
Wasps and bees
While wasps and bees can be scary for anyone who is allergic to them, they can also mean trouble for our furry friends. Many pets can develop an allergic reaction to stings, and if they suffer subsequent stings, the reaction can compound and become dangerous.
Don’t try to remove a wasp or bees nest yourself. Also, remember that bumblebees are actually endangered and need to be protected.
If you’re worried you property has pests that will harm your pets, it may be time to call a professional pest control company.