tick

What you need to know about fleas, ticks and mosquitoes

Although fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and most other pests are know to thrive in warmer temperatures, they DO NOT disappear when the temperature drops.  This is why veterinarians recommend year-round parasite protection for your pets.  

Here are some interesting facts about parasites:

Fleas don't fly: they jump.  The average flea can jump as far as 12 inches forward and 7 inches high.  One flea can bite you pet up to 400 times a day!  Female fleas are typically larger than male fleas.

Ticks are not insects, they are arachnids, related to spiders and scorpions.  Ticks do not jump, fly or drop from trees...they crawl.  That's why pets are so susceptible.   Some ticks inject a substance that acts like a local anesthetic, so your pet unwittingly provides a tick with dinner and a ride.  

 More than 70 mosquito species can transmit heartworm.   Heartworm can live up to 7 years in untreated dogs.  A mature heartworm can grow as much as 10 inches long.

Whispering Pines Veterinary Services carries a variety of parasite protection products in our clinics. You can also shop our online pharmacy for more products and home delivery.