The Projection is… Heart worm on the Rise and Mosquito Activity Heavy

Every year the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) puts out its forecast for parasite activity. 2018 is not looking pretty. “Academic parasitologists” consider precipitation, mosquito population density, and temperature to create their expert opinions on the upcoming year’s parasite activity. What do we have in store this year? Heartworm is on the rise for our sweet and furry friends.

The 2017 prediction for a rise in mosquito activity by Dr. Chris Rehm, veterinarian, and president of the American Heartworm Society was correct. He also told the AV he suspected even heavier mosquito populations in 2018. The hot and wet weather over the last few years and changing weather patterns are a major factor in the strong mosquito population which is what leads to this rise in heartworm disease. The CAPC also speculates that pets displaced due to last year’s hurricanes could have unknowingly been carrying and spreading the disease.

Other Parasites are on the Rise Too

It isn’t only mosquitoes that thrive in hot, wet summers. Ticks are predicted to be strong this year too. Ticks can spread Lyme disease to our pets. This same prediction from the Parasite Council shows a presence of Lyme in Kentucky and other more southern states where it was not previously prevalent. Ticks also carry anaplasmosis and babesiosis. All of these parasites can be dangerous for our pets.

Protect your Pets with Tick and Mosquito Control

There are different options out there for flea, tick, and mosquito control for your pets: topical applications, medicated collars, long-lasting medications in pill form. At Mosquito Squad of Louisville, we suggest that you talk to your vet about which works best for your pets. However, with what appears to be a strong mosquito season ahead, you really can’t just stop there. It’s imperative that we all be proactive in our fight to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Step one is clean up. The 5Ts of mosquito control are great guidelines to how to begin at home and on your own.

Next, we suggest talking about it out with your friends, family, and neighbors. The larger the effort, the fewer the mosquitoes. It really can be that simple.

Professional tick and mosquito treatment also needs to be a part of a well-rounded mosquito protection plan. Mosquito Squad’s barrier treatment will eliminate 90% of the mosquitoes in your yard on contact. We love our pets. They are part of our family. Knowing the risks for disease are out there and increased this year means we need to take immediate action. Mosquito Squad of Louisville is ready to create the treatment plan that best serves your family… including the 4-legged furry members. Call us today.