How to protect your furry friend from insects in Texas

Pet owners need to be aware of the various diseases and pests that can threaten their dog’s health during the summer.

In this Q&A, Dr. Hunter Finn, veterinarian and partner at MetLife Pet Insurance, shares insight into the pests that should really worry dog ​​owners this summer. From fleas and ticks to lesser-known pests, Dr. Finn shares important tips for protecting your furry friends from the seasonal dangers lurking in Texas and the Houston area.

Q: What insects are most common in Texas and the Houston area and can pose a danger to dogs?

A: As summer approaches, pet owners in Texas, especially in the Houston area, need to be wary of several insects that can pose a danger to their dogs. From fleas and ticks to bees and even scorpions, pet owners should keep a close eye on their furry friend's health and well-being. A flea bite can cause discomfort that includes excessive itching and scratching, as well as a reduction in your pet's red blood cells. Ticks can be very dangerous because they can transmit blood-borne diseases such as ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease. Finally, your dog is at risk of being stung by a bee or scorpion, potentially leading to an emergency situation.

SEE ALSO: The recent rain has brought mosquitoes with it. What is the best way to combat these annoying insects?

Q: How can pet owners effectively protect their dogs from ticks and mosquitoes in the summer?

A: There are numerous preventative measures pet owners can take to protect their pets this summer, including:

• Use products that repel ticks and mosquitoes as recommended by your veterinarian. These products can provide long-term protection for your furry friends and are tailored to their specific needs.

• After spending time outdoors, carefully check your dog for ticks that may have attached themselves, especially in places like the ears, neck and between the toes, where ticks often lurk. Keep your dog's coat clean and well-groomed, as pests like fleas and ticks are easier to spot on clean fur.

• Before going outside, apply veterinarian-recommended mosquito repellents to your dog's coat or clothing. Also, consider using mosquito nets or screens around outdoor bedding areas for additional protection.

• Spend less time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquitoes tend to be more active in the early morning and evening, so avoid spending too much time outdoors during these times.

• Be sure to purchase pet insurance to be prepared for emergencies that may arise if your pet is put at risk by contact with a dangerous insect. Pet insurance is one of the most proactive measures a pet owner can take. Policies like MetLife Pet Insurance offer health plans for your pet's overall health, including flea, tick and heartworm prevention.

Q: Are there any lesser-known pests in Texas that dog owners should be aware of?

A: Some lesser-known pests in Texas that pet owners should be aware of are fire ants and assassin bugs. Fire ants are not like other ants that may annoy you but do little harm. They can pose a serious threat to your dog. When fire ants bite, they inject venom. This venom can cause a fatal allergic reaction in some dogs. In addition, assassin bugs are common in Texas. This insect can transmit Chagas disease, which can damage your dog's heart. If you think your dog has been bitten by fire ants or assassin bugs and is showing signs of anaphylactic shock, take him to the vet immediately.

Q: What are the signs that a dog may have been bitten or infected by an insect, and what should pet owners do if they suspect their dog is infested?

A: There are a variety of clinical signs to look out for when it comes to insect bites in dogs. Most of these are not serious, cause mild irritation, and go away on their own. Here are some common signs of insect bites in dogs:

• Howling, whining or whimpering when bitten

• Swelling or redness at the bite site

• Localized pain or itching at the bite site

• Urticaria

• itching

• Swelling of the face

• A thorn or tick protrudes from the skin

Some bites can be dangerous or even life-threatening for your dog. Therefore, it is especially important for pet owners to be able to recognize anaphylactic shock caused by insect bites.

Q: Can you recommend any specific precautions or products to protect dogs from insects in Texas?

A: I recommend vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives, mosquito repellents, tick checks, protective pet clothing, regular grooming, and pet insurance. By incorporating these measures into your furry family member's routine, you will not only be well prepared, but you will also effectively protect their overall well-being.

Q: Are there certain outdoor areas in Texas or Houston where dogs are more likely to encounter pests, and if so, how can pet owners reduce these risks?

A: Some outdoor locations in Texas and Houston, such as wooded areas, parks with dense vegetation, and yards with tall grass or standing water, are more likely to have pests that can pose a danger to dogs. I recommend taking the precautions I've outlined before exploring such locations with your pet.

Q: What potential health risks are associated with insect bites or infestations in dogs and how serious are they?

A: Some insect bites on dogs may not cause major problems and heal on their own, but others can be serious and even fatal. Spider bites and bee stings with venom can be very dangerous and may require urgent medical attention. Ticks and mosquitoes can also transmit diseases such as Lyme disease or heartworms through their bites, which may require long-term treatment. Given the potential severity of the conditions caused by lesser-known pests, I strongly recommend that all pet owners purchase pet insurance so they can provide their furry companions with the best treatment plan without worrying about the cost.

Q: How often should pet owners check their dogs for ticks and other pests and what should they look for during these checks?

A: Ticks are often difficult to spot on dogs because they are very small – some ticks are as small as a speck of dust. That's why it's important to avoid and be aware of tick bites in your four-legged family members. Typically, the first signs of tick-borne diseases in pets appear between 7 and 21 days after the bite.

First, check your pet for signs of irritation. If they're scratching or rubbing a particular area of ​​their body, take a closer look. Next, feel their fur with your hands and look for small bumps. If you find a bump or lump, part the fur with your fingers – or gently with a dog comb – and use a light to get a better look. Ticks tend to hide in moist, dark areas, but they can show up anywhere on your furry friend. Don't forget to check these places where ticks are commonly found on dogs:

• Under the collar

• Under the tail

• Under the front and hind legs

• In the groin area

• Between the toes

• On the elbows

• In the ear folds

• On the eyelids

If you find a tick, stay calm. You can safely remove a tick using gloves, tweezers, disinfectant, and rubbing alcohol.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: As pet owners prepare for the summer months, pet insurance is proving to be an essential resource to protect their furry companions from the myriad risks associated with insect bites. With pests like fleas, ticks and mosquitoes more prevalent in warmer weather, dogs are at a higher risk of encountering these insects and the potential health complications associated with them. Pet insurance provides pet owners with financial security and ensures they can afford necessary veterinary care, medications and treatment in the event of an insect-related illness or injury. More specifically, MetLife Pet Insurance policyholders have access to telemedicine concierge services available 24/7, providing invaluable assistance to pet owners with any questions or concerns regarding their pet's health, especially in the event of an infection or illness.