Summertime is full of fun for everyone, including pets. The weather is balmy, the days are longer and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
But wait—what was that pesky buzzing?
Unfortunately, summer does have some obnoxious consequences, namely the appearance of more bugs. Longer days and warm water allow parasites like mosquitoes, fleas and ticks to prosper, and these bugs can cause problems for us and our furry friends.
Mosquitoes pose two main problems for pets: uncomfortable bites and heartworm disease transmission.
Do Mosquito Bites Itch Dogs?
Most pet parents can easily relate to how itchy mosquito bites can be—when numerous, they can be incredibly annoying.
Pets experience a similar reaction to mosquito bites, but luckily they have more defenses than humans. Most pets are somewhat protected from multiple bites by their fur or hair, making it more difficult for the mosquito's mouth piece (the proboscis) to penetrate their skin. Despite these defenses, pets still do suffer from mosquito bites, especially pets with smooth hair coats, such as bulldog breeds.
Unfortunately, there are not many effective repellents that are available for dogs. Some products can help, but the best control is to avoid being outside during the hours when mosquitoes are most active, which is typically during dusk. Mosquitos love to hang around slow-moving water, so avoid areas such as streams and lakes during the evening.
Heartworm Disease and Mosquitoes
The big risk with mosquito bites in pets is the transmission of heartworm disease. Heartworm disease can affect cats, but is more prevalent in dogs. Heartworm has been diagnosed in every state, but is more common in states with warmer, humid climates.
Heartworm infection causes a worm to grow inside the chambers of the heart. Once the adult worm is present, irreversible heart disease has occurred. Heartworm infection can be treated successfully, but the treatment can be invasive and takes several months to kill the heartworm parasite.
It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito for your pet to become infected, so prevention is essential. Heartworm prevention is very safe and effective. There are several products available, and choosing the right one should be done with the help of your veterinarian. Many heartworm prevention products also contain medication to help control intestinal parasites and fleas, which is an added protection bonus.
The Bottom Line on Mosquito Bites
For most people, a mosquito bite is merely annoying. But for dogs, one bite could lead to serious heartworm disease. The good news is that heartworm prevention is well tolerated, efficient and easy to give. Enjoy your summer fun, but make sure your pet is protected.