Another Spin: On the front line against ticks

Someone once said insects would eventually take over the world. I always pictured flies, ants or beetles.

Flea and tick season bites in Blacksburg

Veterinary experts say they’ve seen an uptick in the number of dogs and cats with fleas or ticks.

Q & A: Too Much Dog Shedding!

Question: Too Much Shedding! “I have always taken great pains with the care and grooming of my Siberian Husky, making sure that he is immaculate at all times. But when I brushed him today though, I got two full buckets of hair. I know dogs are supposed to shed, but never have I seen anything [...]

Skin Conditions: Flea Allergy Dermatitis, Hot Spots, & Ringworm

The most common allergic skin disease in the dog develops when certain dogs become hypersensitive to flea bites.  The allergic agent is contained in the saliva or mouth parts of the flea and is injected into the dog when the flea feeds. The disease usually occurs during the warm months and is commonly called “summer [...]

Parasites 3: More On Fleas And Ticks

Fleas and ticks are external parasites that cause annoyance and health problems on your pets. The following are two questions answered about fleas and ticks.

Parasites 2: More Questions About Fleas and Ticks

Do Different Parasites Prefer Certain Host Animals? Yes, there are fleas that prefer cats and those that would rather have their meal on dogs. However, while some fleas do exhibit certain preferences, they are not usually host-specific. That is, in the absence of the preferred host, the flea will attack a less desirable host such [...]

Parasites 1: Those Annoying Fleas Are Back!

It’s the same sad song each year: “My dog has fleas and they are out of control”!

Death By Flea Collars (3)

Most unnecessary deaths of dogs that occur due to flea collar poisoning are the result of an allergic reaction to the active ingredient. Even if your dog is perfectly well at the time the device placed around his neck, observe your dog closely for the first few days. 

Death By Flea Collars (Part 2)

Most packages containing flea collars or other similar-type pest-fighting devices usually carry a printed caution on the front: “Do not allow children to play with this collar”.

Death By Flea Collars (Part 1)

When I was younger and living in San Diego, California, a mixed breed lab died a painful death which was eventually traced to the flea collar it was wearing.