It’s that time of the year again – the monsoons. Cometh the clouds, cometh the risk of flea, tick and the mosquitoes. The latter in particular pose a grave threat as mosquito bites can also transmit other dreaded diseases.
But don’t you worry.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to keep your dog safe from mosquito this rainy season.
Do mosquitoes bite dogs?
Yes, mosquito bites are just as annoying and dangerous for cats and dogs as they are for you. The bites can cause your dog – itching, and irritation, and they can also spread serious bacteria and parasite infections. Despite their fur cover, your pets can get bitten in areas like nose, ears or belly.
Mosquito bite: Common symptoms
It is difficult to tell if your dog has been bitten by a mosquito. However there are a few signs like constant scratching or the bitten areas will look like a bump, just as in case of humans.
Tell-tale signs if your dog has been bitten by a mosquito:
- Constant scratching
- Red welts similar to mosquito bites in humans
- Systemic illness from mosquito-borne parasite infection
- Lethargy and loss of appetite or weight
How to Treat Mosquito Bites in Dogs?
To treat the mosquito bite, wash the affected area with mild soap and warm water and apply an antibacterial cream. See your veterinarian if the bites do not heal or appear to be getting worse.
Mosquito repellant for dogs
Don’t use bug spray on your dogs!
The chemical composition used in most mosquito sprays isn’t safe for your pets. The culprit being DEET, the main chemical in bug sprays. Ingesting it can be poisonous for your dog – seizures, conjunctivitis, vomiting, skin irritation or death.
Natural mosquito repellants for dogs
A safer choice would be using natural repellants like sandalwood, Geranium oil, Soybean oil or Lemon eucalyptus oil in case you do not find a spray without DEET. You can also use Neem oil or a good shampoo to control external parasites like ticks, fleas, and lice in pets.
See Also: How to Exercise with your dogs?
Also see: how to take care of your dogs during the summer season.
How to keep Keep Mosquito away from your dog
- Remove sources of stagnant water around your house and garden. Mosquitoes breed and thrive in stagnant water.
- Change water bowls frequently.
- Avoid walking your dog in marshy places.
- Fit windows and doors of your home with screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
- Try keeping your dog indoors during the times when mosquitos are most active – especially early evenings.
In case you find any pertaining issue with your dog because of a mosquito bite, please don’t ignore it and see the vet at the earliest.