Parasites that can Harm Pet Owners
By HollywoodPet.net |
Sat, 16 Dec 2006
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are pests that can make your dog or cat miserable. But these parasites can affect pet owners too. Fleas and ticks are an all too common problem with pets, but pet owners need to get their own line of defense against disease.
One of the top complaints of pet owners are fleas. Every year veterinarians and over the counter drug manufacturers battle these pests. Recently the dangers of Lyme disease have become more known too. Here are the 5 top health concerns posed by pests that pet owners should avoid.
Fleas can cause skin problems.
Irritations, bites, and scratching are common in humans too. Some pet owners seem to be more attractive to fleas than others. Take the right precautions to not let an infestation get started in your home and yard.
Fleas can transmit bacteria.
Cat Scratch Fever, Bubonic Plague, and Murine Typhus can be transmitted by fleas.
Fleas can carry tapeworm eggs.
No one like to talk about them, but tapeworm eggs can cause intestinal problems. This happens often with children when a flea is accidentally eaten. Take precaution to prevent fleas on your pets.
Ticks can carry disease.
Ticks are the source of Lyme Disease, Rock Mountain Spotted Fever, Erlichiosis, and Tick Paralysis. If these sound bad, it's because they are. Take preventive measures.
Mosquitoes transmit disease.
Most commonly known as a carrier of West Nile Virus.
If you ever see your pet scratching regularly, remember that more is at risk than just your pets comfort. An infestation can quickly get started, bringing on exposure to disease. Take extra care in keeping pests away when small children are present. Vigilance is the key to keeping exposure to disease down so your and your pet will remain healthy and safe.
