Flea & Tick Prevention FAQs

Here at Ashworth Road Animal Hospital veterinary office in West Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Clive, and Urbandale, we want to help you keep your pets safe from fleas and ticks. Below are some frequently asked questions about flea and tick prevention. If you have any other questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to give a veterinarian a call!

What Are Some Signs That My Pet Has Fleas?

Some common signs that your pet has fleas include excessive scratching, biting, or licking of the skin, hot spots, and hair loss. You may also be able to see small black dots on your pet's skin or in their fur. These are flea dirt, which is the dried blood that fleas have sucked from your pet! If you think your pet has fleas, the best thing to do is bring them in for a flea prevention and tick prevention exam

Are Fleas Dangerous?

Fleas can cause a lot of discomfort for your pet. They can also transmit diseases. One disease that fleas can carry is typhus, which is a bacterial infection that can be passed to humans. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms to both pets and humans. That's why it's so important to make sure your pet is on flea prevention medication and to regularly check your pet for fleas.

What Are Some Signs That My Pet Has Ticks?

Ticks are a little harder to spot than fleas, but there are still some telltale signs that your pet has them. If your pet is listless, has a fever, or seems generally unwell, they may have ticks. You should also check their skin and fur for small, dark bumps. These are the ticks themselves. If you find any, take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Book Your Pet Care Appointment With a Veterinarian Today

If you have any other questions about flea and tick prevention, contact Ashworth Road Animal Hospital today. Call us at (515) 225-1807 for more information or to schedule an appointment.