How to Keep Your Dachshund Far Away From Tick and Flea Infestation?

Fleas and ticks are one of the many problems that our pets face in their day-to-day life. They can cause discomfort and in extreme cases can lead to serious illness to pets. If untreated, these illnesses can spread to humans too. Some of the diseases that fleas cause include flea allergy, dermatitis, severe itching, and inflammation. If left untreated, they can also cause secondary bacterial and fungal infections. Ticks are also known to be serious transmitters of diseases such as Lyme disease, Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis.

Dachshunds are more prone to flea and tick attacks since they are much shorter in height (and thus closer to the ground), meaning they pick up fleas and ticks more easily than other dogs. Ticks are normally found on grass tips, small shrubs, and weeds. When Dachshunds are in the open, these ticks easily get on to the dog's body. Similarly, fleas can be abundant in moist, warm shady areas like your dog's mattress and play areas.

With proper care, flea and tick attacks can be prevented and treated. There are many topical medications on the market that can be used to treat fleas and ticks. These medications are applied to your pet's body on areas which are more prone to attack, such as the shoulder blades and the base of the neck. These medications contain ingredients that not only kill fleas and ticks, but which also repel them and which continue to remain effective despite bathing and washing. However, special care must be taken that these medications do not go near your pet's eyes or mouth as these ingredients are toxic. For this reason, it is also important to keep them out of the reach of children. Some of the most commonly used topical medications include K9Advantix, Frontline Top Spot, and Frontline Plus.

Another treatment method is the use of oral medications and some of these products also help to eliminate roundworms and whipworms. Even though there are very few side effects when using these products, some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, itching, and lack of appetite, in which case it is important to consult with a veterinarian.

In addition to topical and oral medications, there are many other products that can help to curb the flea and tick infestations such as special shampoos, sprays, and even dog collars which have concentrated chemicals in them to prevent flea and tick attacks. Although all these medications help in getting rid of fleas and ticks, it is recommended that you consult your veterinarian before administering these medications.

There are several steps you can take to help prevent flea and tick attacks. Here are some points to remember:

• Keep your dog away from flea and tick infested areas like unkempt stone walls, firewood piles and moist places
• Keep your property neat and tidy, cut lawns short, take out weeds and trim shrubs
• If your property is infested, treat them with insecticides/pesticides or call in pest control
• Keep the indoor of your house clean and hygienic so as to prevent it from infestation
• Check your dog regularly for ticks and fleas, especially after long outing sessions
• Groom and bathe your dog periodically so as to keep him healthy and clean
With proper care and hygiene, fleas and ticks can be kept at bay not only from your dogs but from your family as well.