Bugs to Watch Out for If You Have Dogs 

Bugs can be a huge annoyance to our dogs just as they are to us! In fact, some dogs love to latch onto our dogs, which others may deliver a bite or sting as an act of defense. It is important to know that some of these insects can cause pets to become severely ill if they attempt to eat them as a snack. We wanted to share our list of some of the most common bugs to watch out for if you have dogs.

Ticks – Is your dog spending a lot of time outside? If so, you need to check your dog regularly for tics. If a tick remains unnoticed for a long period of time, paralysis may occur. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, change of barking pitch, and vomiting.

Spiders – Did you know that the United States is home to two species of poisonous spiders? These include the black widow and brown recluse. If left untreated, poisonous spider bites can lead to deep tissue damage and even amputation.

Mosquitoes – These insects can carry numerous diseases which may be passed on to humans. In fact, the mosquito is a main carrier of heartworm. If your dog contracts heartworm and the symptoms are left untreated, death can occur within a few months.

Ants – Ant bites are no good! They often resemble hives and can spread all over the body. It is not common for a serious reaction to occur, but anaphylaxis is always a possibility.

Fleas – Unfortunately, this is common in the dog world. The main problem with flea bites is that they are annoying and itchy. It is important to ensure that your dog is on a good flea preventative, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors or in boarding facilities, daycare facilities, or dog parks.

In the event of an insect bite, ingestion, or sting, it is best to contact your veterinarian for advice on what to do. They may recommend certain medications and/or topical creams to treat symptoms. One of the best things that you can do as a pet owner is to be proactive in avoiding these types of bugs.