Mosquito Bites & Your Pets

Mosquito Bites & Your Pets

Did you know that mosquito bites are just as irritating to animals as they are to humans, and in certain cases, animals and pets can contract mosquito-borne diseases that can be deadly. The highest risk is found in warm climates, especially the southeastern states (e.g. Florida). Florida is home to approximately 80 known species of mosquitoes, more than any other state.

When it comes to pets, the most common mosquito-transmitted disease is heartworm. If a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae bites a cat or dog, the larvae will mature into adult heartworms. If untreated, heartworms can cause severe injury to a pet’s lungs, major arteries and the heart.

In addition to heartworms, infected mosquitoes can transmit encephalitis to pets and even horses. Encephalitis is the inflammation to the brain and can also be fatal.

So what can you do to protect your pets? Be sure to remove any trash or debris that collects water, even something as small as a bottle cap as that holds enough water to serve as a mosquito-egg nursery. Also be sure to empty water from dog dishes regularly to avoid breeding. For additional tips on preventing mosquito breeding on your property , click on the 7 T’s for Mosquito Control for helpful hints.

You can also contact Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay at (813) 534-5918 or tampabay@mosquitosquad.com to treat your property, not only for mosquitoes, but other biting insects (e.g. fleas) as well. They will ensure that you, your family and pets are free from the nuisances of mosquitoes and other biting insects.

Remember to be vigilant as it only takes eight days for mosquitos to grow from an egg to an adult. Call “The Squad” today for more information.