Prepping Your Pooch Against Fleas And Ticks Before The Onset Of Camping Season

By Author: stephenie loren
Total Articles: 26
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The mild winter temperatures and the onset of spring have many campers eager to start the season a bit early this year with their canines in tow. Unfortunately, the balmy weather of winter in many parts of the country has made this one of the worst flea, tick and mosquito seasons in years, so you'll have to make sure that your canine is protected from the many risks that come with camping in the wilderness. Before you make it to your favorite outdoor locale, keep the following health concerns in mind.

1. Heartworm prevention. Mosquitoes are the leading cause of heartworm infection in canines, and the early spring is when swarms of these bugs will be biting you and your canine. Topical drops like Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs should be a major step in your spring regimen. These drops are placed at the skin level between a dog's shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on contact for up to 30 days. Additionally, you should also look into tents with adequate netting to keep any of these pesky intruders out of your living quarters.

2. ...
... An emergency kit. Along with your standard first-aid kit, be sure to pack a bunch of dog-related medical supplies that will be available in the event of any mishap. According to the ASPCA, this should include everything from bandages, an extra leash, extra food, blankets, bottled water and a copy of your canine's medical history. This will allow a veterinarian to give your furry friend optimal treatment, no matter the severity of his injuries.

3. Visual checks. Even with the best flea and tick prevention, it's still extremely important that you inspect your canine's skin and coat after each hike into the wilderness. There are a whole host of insects that can hitch a ride on your dog's fur, so be sure to check the area around his neck, stomach and the base of his tail. This could be an easy way to spot a problem before it becomes a major issue.

Camping with your dog is a fun and rewarding experience, but it comes with its own share of risks. Make sure you keep these tips in mind before you and your four-legged friend spend quality time at the campsite.

For more information about Hartz Flea Control products for pets, log on to http://hartzfleacontrol.blogspot.com/