Parasite Control in North Richland Hills
What may seem like a minor nuisance to you can be dangerous and even life-threatening for your pet. Effective flea and tick prevention, stronger than typical over-the-counter treatments, can help you avoid serious health issues and the hassle of parasite infestations in your home.
Request an AppointmentIf your pet does have fleas or ticks, Cornerstone Animal Hospital offers professional flea treatments and safe tick removal at our clinic.
Dangers and Complications From Fleas and Ticks
Fleas can multiply rapidly, especially if unnoticed, leading to a full infestation in your home. Flea bites cause itching and discomfort for your pet and family, and can become infected. Fleas can also transmit diseases to your pet. Additionally, if your pet ingests fleas carrying worms, it can develop parasitic infections that deprive nutrients and, if untreated, can be fatal. Ticks carry diseases such as Lyme disease, which can severely affect your pet’s health over time. Pets who ingest fleas or worms often show skin or coat changes that our pet dermatology team can help evaluate.
Types of Flea and Tick Prevention
Spot-on treatments are commonly used by veterinary clinics for preventing fleas and ticks. This involves applying a liquid solution to your pet’s neck, which is secreted through sweat glands to repel and kill fleas and ticks on contact. These treatments are affordable and generally well-tolerated by pets.
Sprays are another option, involving an alcohol-based solution applied directly to your pet. Side effects are slightly more common with sprays compared to spot-on treatments. Oral medications are also available and provide full-body protection, including areas sprays cannot reach. Sometimes a combination of methods or adjusted dosages is recommended to effectively protect against both fleas and ticks. Many of these products also work alongside heartworm prevention for complete year-round protection.
Treating Fleas and Ticks at Cornerstone Animal Hospital
If your pet becomes infested with fleas or ticks, our North Richland Hills veterinarians can help. Using sprays or spot-on treatments, we eliminate fleas from your pet. For ticks, we provide safe removal and can test ticks for diseases through our on-site laboratory services. We also offer guidance on treating your home to remove the source of infestation.
To schedule flea or tick prevention or treatment, contact our North Richland Hills veterinary office at Cornerstone Animal Hospital by calling (817) 514-8387.
How can I tell if my pet has fleas or ticks?
Common signs include excessive scratching, visible insects or dark specks in the fur, red or irritated skin, and hair loss in affected areas.
Are over-the-counter flea treatments as effective as veterinary options?
No, veterinary-strength flea and tick prevention is generally more effective and longer lasting than typical over-the-counter treatments.
Can fleas and ticks make my pet seriously ill?
Yes, fleas can cause skin infections and parasitic infections, while ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease that affect your pet’s long-term health.
What’s the difference between spot-on treatments and oral medications?
Spot-on treatments are applied to the skin and spread through natural oils, while oral medications work systemically and can reach areas topical treatments may miss.
Do I need to treat my home if my pet has fleas?
Yes, treating your home is often necessary to fully eliminate a flea infestation, since fleas can live in carpets, bedding, and furniture.
Can you test a tick for disease after removing it?
Yes, we can safely remove ticks and test them for tick-borne diseases as part of our diagnostic services.
How often should my pet be on flea and tick prevention?
Most pets benefit from year-round prevention, since fleas and ticks can be active even during cooler months in North Texas.