Pets Owners Set to Face Flea Explosion
.jpg)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media release: 18 October, 2011
Pets Owners Set to Face Flea Explosion
A leading veterinarian has urged pet owners to take immediate action after Queensland Government predictions of heavy rainfalls looks set to be accompanied by a severe explosion of fleas.
Dr Mark Perissinotto from online pet supply retailer VetShopAustralia.com.au has warned that pet owners nationwide must begin putting preventative action in place to protect their pets as Australia braces for another season of severe La Niña conditions, which will provide the perfect breeding environment for fleas and ticks.
"This time of year is a time when all pets are at their highest risk of becoming infested with fleas, however with current weather predictions, it is especially important to have a flea plan in place to keep your pet safe," Dr Perissinotto said.
“With nearly 6 million cats and dogs nationwide and 63% of households around the country owning at least one pet, vets are bracing for an increase in cases of skin diseases caused by fleas, with flea allergy dermatitis accounting for the largest number of cases seen by vets,” he said.
Dr Perissinotto believed there were ways to avoid pets developing flea infestations and skin problems and recommended using a flea treatment to prevent fleas that was suitable for the pet’s environment and lifestyle.
“The existing leading brand monthly flea control products - including Frontline Plus, Revolution, Advantage, Advocate Advantix and Comfortis - remain the best form of treatment for the control of fleas in dogs and cats currently available if used properly,” Dr Perissinotto said.
"Pet owners often believed flea products did not work because the pests continued to emerge on their cats and dogs even after treatment. If the product is applied properly and consistently every month then the success rate will be much higher," he said.
Dr Perissinotto suggested to always follow directions for the best possible results and to remember to keep an eye on your pet’s surrounding environment.
"If using a topical product pets should be kept dry 48 hours before and after treatment, which should always be applied at the correct dose. It is just as important to treat all household pets at the same time to avoid any fleas finding their way into your home," he said.
"Washing bedding, vacuuming and spraying outdoor problem areas will also help to destroy any remaining fleas when getting rid of a serious flea infestation" Dr Perissinotto explained.
"Hot weather and itchy skin is a combination that no pet owner would want their beloved furry friend to be faced with, which is why it is every pet owner’s responsibility to step up and make sure everything is being done to protect our pets," he said.
ENDS
Further information
Media Contact: Jemma Lenton 07 5453 4840
Jemma.lenton@vetshoponline.com
Address: 5/42 Owen Creek RD. Forest Glen QLD
Go to the Dr Mark bio page for more information about Dr Mark Perissinotto.