Water Safety Tips for Pet Parents

Imagine a sunny day by the lake, your dog joyfully splashing in the water, looking up at you, tail wagging with excitement. Water activities can be some of the most delightful moments we share with our pets. However, without proper precautions, these joyful outings can quickly turn dangerous. As pet parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure their safety around water, whether it’s a swimming pool, a lake, or the ocean.

This article will provide essential water safety tips for pet parents, covering everything from teaching your pet to swim and understanding water conditions, to the importance of life jackets and recognizing the signs of heatstroke. By following these guidelines, you can help create a safe and enjoyable environment for your pet to enjoy the water.

Teaching the Basics

Teaching your pet to swim can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Follow these steps to help ensure a positive and playful water experience:

By following these steps and progressing at your pet’s pace, you can help them become a confident and happy swimmer. Patience and positivity are the keys to success!

Know & Prepare for Your Location

Before embarking on a water adventure with your furry companion, it’s essential to take some key steps to ensure their safety and comfort.

The safety of the water you choose for your pet is paramount. Different bodies of water present varying risks ranging from algae and fishing gear, to rip currents and undertows. Start by selecting a location known for calm waters, especially if your pet is new to swimming. Look for areas with minimal algae or debris, as these can irritate your pet’s skin or be ingested accidentally. If you’re at a beach, be aware of tidal changes that can affect water depth and current strength. Always choose spots where your pet can easily enter and exit the water.

Pets are sensitive to temperature extremes, especially our younger and older ones. Water that is too cold can lead to hypothermia, especially for smaller or shorter-haired breeds. It can also lead to “cold tail” aka ‘swimmers’ tail”, a typically temporary condition where the tail can go limp. Conversely, water that is too warm can cause overheating and dehydration. A good rule of thumb is to test the water with your hand or foot. It should feel comfortably cool. If it feels uncomfortable to you, it will likely be uncomfortable for your pet as well.

Accidents can happen, even in the safest environments. Before heading out, identify the nearest emergency veterinary clinic to your location. Knowing where to go in an emergency can save valuable time and ensure prompt care for your pet.

Just like humans, pets can get sunburned, especially those with short fur or light-colored coats. Before heading out, apply a pet-safe sunscreen to areas of exposed skin, such as the nose, ears, and belly. Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for pets to avoid ingredients that could be harmful if ingested.

Additionally, watch out for hot surfaces like sand, asphalt, or metal boat decks that can burn your pet’s paw pads. Test these surfaces with your hand – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Provide shade breaks, paw protection, and encourage your pet to stay hydrated to prevent overheating.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pet happy and healthy during aquatic adventures!

Life Jackets: Ensuring Safety on the Water

Life jackets aren’t just for humans – they’re crucial for keeping our fur babies safe during water activities. Just like people, pets can tire or get disoriented in the water, making it difficult for them to swim to safety.

A properly fitted life jacket helps keep your pet afloat and their head above water, even if they become tired or are in rough water. It’s an important safety measure that can prevent accidents and give you peace of mind knowing your pet is protected.

When choosing a life jacket for your pet, fit is key. Look for jackets specifically designed for dogs or cats, as they’re tailored to their body shapes and movements. Measure your pet’s chest girth and neck circumference to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.

Adjustable straps and buckles are essential for achieving a secure fit that allows for natural movement without rubbing or chafing. Choose a bright colour or one with reflective strips for better visibility in the water.

Introducing your pet to a life jacket should be a gradual process. Start by letting them sniff and investigate the jacket while offering treats or praise to create positive associations. Once they’re comfortable, gently put the jacket on for short periods indoors, allowing them to move freely and rewarding them with treats for wearing it.

Gradually increase the time your pet wears the jacket and practice in calm, shallow water to let them get used to the buoyancy. Use toys or games to distract and engage them while wearing the jacket to make the experience enjoyable.

Life jackets are a lifesaving investment in your pet’s safety during aquatic adventures!

Water Consumption

When your pet is enjoying a day by the water, we want to make sure they are keeping hydrated. Here are some key tips to manage their water consumption:

 

Taking Breaks

Just like us, pets need regular breaks during active play to prevent exhaustion. Encourage your pet to rest by providing a comfortable spot away from the water. Taking breaks helps prevent fatigue and allows your pet to recover, ensuring they have the energy to continue having fun safely.

During breaks, make sure your pet has access to a shaded area. Whether it’s under a tree, an umbrella, or a portable pet tent, shade protects them from the sun’s intense rays. Additionally, ensure your pet stays hydrated by offering fresh water frequently.

Proper hydration helps regulate their body temperature and keeps them refreshed. Carry a portable water bowl to make it easy for them to drink. There’s also many different cooling pet apparel, perfect to help keep their core body temperature regulated.

Heatstroke is a serious risk during outdoor activities, especially in hot weather. Watch for symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, rapid heart rate, or vomiting. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately and offer them water. Use cool (not cold) water to wet their fur and help lower their body temperature. Contact a veterinarian right away if symptoms persist.

Let’s encourage rest, provide shade and hydration, and be vigilant about heatstroke symptoms. Taking these precautions ensures our furry friends enjoy a fun and healthy day by the water.

Washing Up

Water play can leave your pet’s coat and skin coated with chlorine, salt, or other irritants. These substances can cause dryness, itching, and irritation. After swimming, give your pet a thorough rinse with fresh water to remove any residues.

Use a gentle pet shampoo if needed but be sure to rinse all soap thoroughly to avoid further irritation. A good rinse will help keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.

During the cleaning process, be mindful of grooming and ingestion risks. Pets often lick themselves while being dried off, which can lead to the ingestion of harmful substances they’ve picked up in the water. Thoroughly rinse their fur to remove any remaining chlorine, salt, or contaminants before drying. Brush their coat to remove any tangles or debris that might have gotten caught during their water adventures.

Enjoying water activities with your pet can be a blast, but safety is key. Start by teaching your pet to swim gradually, always using praise and rewards. Know and prepare for your location by checking water conditions, temperatures, and having emergency contacts handy. Equip your pet with a properly fitted life jacket and provide fresh drinking water to avoid toxicity. Take regular breaks in the shade and stay vigilant for signs of heatstroke. Afterward, rinse your pet thoroughly to prevent skin irritation and ingestion of harmful substances.

By prioritizing water safety, you ensure that every splash and swim is a positive experience for your pet. With these tips, you can relax and enjoy making wonderful memories together, knowing your furry friend is safe and happy. Here’s to many fun and safe water adventures with your beloved pet!

A Guide to Sustainable Pet Parenting

Welcome to the world of sustainable pet parenting, where our furry friends and the planet team up for a brighter future! As pet lovers, we know the joy and responsibility that comes with caring for our four-legged friends. But in today’s world, being a pet parent means more than just providing food and shelter. It’s about making conscious choices that benefit not only our pets but also the environment they live in.

Let’s explore conscious buying habits in pet care, where each purchase can create a positive change. We’ll showcase brands that make excellent products while also supporting causes, cutting their carbon footprints, and leading the way in sustainability from start to finish.

So, get ready to unleash the power of sustainable pet parenting as we explore how our choices can make a difference, one paw at a time!

Paw-sitive Impact

One way we can make a difference as pet parents is by picking brands that help out with causes and communities. In the pet care world, some brands don’t just sell their product – they’re on a mission to make a positive impact on the world.

Take Almo Nature & Fondazione Capellino Foundation, for example. Set up in 2018, this nonprofit foundation uses all the money it makes to protect biodiversity and fight climate change through its Reintegration Economy model. This shows they’re committed to giving back to nature.

Similarly, Earth Rated has helped out over 11,000 organizations, including pet-related ones like SNAP Quebec. They’ve also supported big projects like global healthcare systems through partnerships with organizations like (RED).

But the paw-sitivity doesn’t stop there. Petcurean actively participates in their community by assisting with various projects. They donate time and resources to support groups that feed pets and plant trees to help bees and fight climate change.

Project Hive is all about saving bees. They’re working to create healthy places for bees to live by planting wildflowers. Their goal is to make 50 million feet of habitat by 2025.

Sweat Scoop cares about the future and not just because they have all-natural cat litter. They’re teaming up with Plastic Bank to help clean up the oceans by collecting and recycling plastic. West Paw also gives back by volunteering and donating to good causes. Both these brands show how businesses can make an impact while still making great products for our pets.

Paws on the Planet

Pet parents can make a significant impact on the planet by choosing brands with their Paws on the Planet. When we check out brands that make stuff in eco-friendly ways and have carbon-neutral factories, we can help lower our pet’s carbon paw-print. These committed companies really care about the environment. They work hard to ensure their products don’t hurt the planet during production, from getting the materials to disposal.

Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Nature’s Hug, Made Better, Petcurean, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw are leading the charge in reducing emissions and greenhouse gases. They are putting in the work to figure out and cut down on how much their products hurt the environment over their whole life.

They’re showing everyone in the pet care world how to be more eco-friendly. By choosing products from these environmentally conscious brands, pet parents can play a part in creating a greener and healthier planet for their beloved pets and future generations to enjoy.

Paw-sitive Sustainability

We have the power to make a meaningful impact by choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. These brands not only focus on environmental benefits but also uphold social and economic considerations, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability. When you support companies that get their raw materials in a way that doesn’t hurt the planet, treat their workers fairly, and help out their communities, you’re helping make the pet care industry more fair and earth-friendly.

When you see logos like B Corp Certification and the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) on product packages, it means the brands are really serious about being eco-friendly. These logos help you know which brands care about the planet. Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Earth Animal, Made Better, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw proudly show off these certifications, proving they’re committed to doing great things for the planet and following eco-conscious business practices.

Also, pet parents can look for products with packaging that can be composted or are made of recyclable material. Brands like Almo Cat Litter, Earth Rated, Made Better, and Sweat Scoop care about reducing waste and using eco-friendly materials in their packaging.

When pet parents pick brands that care about paw-sitive sustainability, they help make the pet care industry better. Together, we can make the planet healthier for pets and people, making the future brighter for everyone.

Paw-Some Eating

Pet parents can make a positive impact on their pets’ health and the environment by choosing brands focused on paw-some eating. The pet food industry is changing with new options like plant-based protein and insect-based protein. These choices are better for the environment compared to traditional meat diets.

Insects and plant-based options for pet food need less land, water, and food compared to animals. That’s a great choice for pet owners who want to be planet-friendly.

Beyond their eco-friendliness, alternative protein diets offer numerous health benefits for pets. Insects and vegetables have lots of vitamins and minerals that pets’ bodies can use easily. providing complete and balanced diet for our furry companions. These diets are particularly beneficial for pets with common protein allergies or sensitivities, offering premium nutrition without compromising on taste, quality or comfort.

Brands that make insect protein pet food include FirstMate Kasiks, GO!, Made Better, and Pulp Habits. Natural Balance and Petipet have created plant-based options. By picking these brands, pet parents can feed their pets well, help the environment, and support a better future for everyone.

Taking Action for a Greener Future

At Global Pet Foods, we dedicate ourselves to offering pet products that are friendly to the planet. We also aim to help pet owners adopt eco-friendly practices every day with your pets. Beyond choosing sustainable brands, pet parents can make a difference by adopting environmentally conscious habits in their everyday lives. Easy tasks like turning off lights when you leave a room, fixing leaks to save water, using water-saving appliances, and unplugging electronics when you’re not using them can help make the future more green.

Also, pet parents can make their carbon footprint smaller by cleaning up after our pets, using waste bags that break down naturally, and picking eco-friendly pet litter. When we can, using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone helps cut down on emissions and makes the environment cleaner.

By adopting these eco-friendly habits into our daily routines, pet parents can significantly reduce their environmental impact. At Global Pet Foods, we believe that collective efforts, both big and small, can lead to significant positive change. Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive, one sustainable action at a time. Together, we can make a lasting impact for future generations.

We celebrate the journey of sustainable pet parenting, where every choice counts towards a greener future. We’re dedicated to providing eco-friendly products and helping pet parents learn about them.

Our goal is to make sustainability easy and enjoyable for everyone. We’re building a community of pet lovers who care about making a difference. This includes supporting brands that give back and adopting eco-friendly habits in our everyday lives.

Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive! Let’s choose brands that care about the planet, speak up for what’s right, and inspire others to join us in making the world greener. Together, we can make a positive change and leave behind a legacy of love and care for our pets and the environment.

Preparing for a New Furry Friend

So, you’ve decided to expand your family with a furry addition – congratulations! Starting this journey is exciting and touching, but it also brings many responsibilities. From tail wags to potty incidents, adopting a new pet brings love, laughter, and a few surprises along the way.

Before getting a pet, it’s important to get ready – for both your new pet’s health and your own! A bit of preparation can help make things easier for you, other pets in the household, and your new pet. So, buckle up, grab your squeakiest toy, or entertaining cat wand, and let’s embark on this adventure together!

Understanding Your Pet’s Needs

Before you take the plunge into pet parenthood, it’s essential to do some detective work on your chosen furry friend. Every pet breed or species has its own unique set of needs, quirks, and predisposed conditions. By learning about their needs, you can make sure they fit into your life and that you’re ready to take care of them.

Whether you’re welcoming a playful pup or a wise old senior, understanding their age-related needs and potential health issues sets the stage for a happy and healthy life together.

Get ready to dish out some love! Their diet is key to their health and happiness. It is their fuel to thrive! Some pets do best on raw or fresh diets, while others prefer the convenience of kibble or wet food.

Be aware of potential food allergies and sensitivities that may come up – be on the look out for tummy troubles or dry itchy skin! For big breeds, keeping the calcium to phosphorus ratio 1:1 is important to keep their bones strong and avoid orthopedic issues. Our healthy pet care specialists are happy to help you find top-quality options to fit every family.

So, get ready to serve up a meal fit just for them – your furry friend will thank you with tail wags and purrs aplenty!

Finding the perfect veterinarian can be like discovering the holy grail of pet care! If you’re a raw food fan, or a holistic healer, or a traditional care giver, finding a vet who gets your furry values is key.

This will create the most consistent and positive experience for everyone involved in your pet’s healthcare team. Once you’ve found your and your pet’s perfect match, schedule that all-important first appointment. Your visit is the perfect time to talk about vaccinations, preventive care, spaying or neutering, and any health problems common to your pet’s breed. Being proactive about your pet’s health sets the stage for a lifetime of tail-wagging wellness!

Essential Supplies

EssentialsThings to Consider
Food & Water Bowls– Want to find the right bowls for your pet’s life stage, height, and age.
– Consider slow feeder bowls for eager eaters.
– Raised bowls can benefit taller or older friends.
– Stainless steel bowls are ideal for raw/fresh diets: more bacterial resistance.
– Want to ensure a constant supply of fresh water, water fountains can be helpful.
Toys & Stimulation– Keep boredom at bay with engaging toys and activities.
– Select toys that match your pet’s size, life stage, and chewing behavior.
– Include teething toys for puppies and kittens.
– Focus on both fun and mental/physical stimulation and enjoy the bonding time.
Grooming– Grooming needs can vary widely based on species, breed, and hair coat type.
– Equip yourself with the right tools: nail trimmers, combs, brushes suited to your pet’s coat, shampoos, and conditioners.
– Introduce grooming practices early but slow with lots of praise and treats.
– Regular grooming keeps your pet looking their best and lets you check for any strange signs or health problems.
– This is also an excellent chance to spend one on one time with them to truly bond.
Sleeping Space– Pick a sleeping spot that fits what your pet needs, like a crate, a raised bed for better airflow, or a soft bed for more comfort.
– Especially for older pets, consider a comfy bed or mat to protect them from the hard floor, as it can make them sore.
– Their own spot can be crucial for their well-being, allowing them to feel secure and comfortable in their environment
Leashes & Collars/Harnesses– Step out in style and safety with a durable leash and comfortable collar/harness.
– Choose the right collar or harness based on your pet’s pulling tendencies and your training preferences.
– Many leashes come in water-resistant materials or with two hooks for different uses, fitting your lifestyle better.
Identification– Identification can be a lifesaver: ensure your pet has a microchip and a clear ID tag.
– Keep your contact info up-to-date for added safety and peace of mind.

Creating a Safe Environment

Creating a safe environment for your new furry friend is essential for their well-being and your peace of mind when bringing them home. Prepare your home by pet proofing, securing toxic substances and small objects that could pose a choking hazard.

Consider installing baby gates to restrict access to certain areas and ensure all electrical cords are safely tucked away. Setting up a dedicated space for your pet to sleep, eat, and relax is crucial for their comfort and security. Choose a cozy corner or room, with minimal traffic, where they can retreat when they need some alone time.

When introducing your new pet to their home, take it slow and steady, especially when it comes to meeting other animals in the household. Consider quarantining them initially until they’ve been vaccinated and dewormed to prevent the spread of parasites or illness.

Start by introducing them to one room at a time, gradually expanding their territory as they become more comfortable. Offer plenty of positive reinforcement and patience during these interactions. Allow them to explore at their own pace and provide plenty of cuddles and reassurance along the way. By following these strategies, you’ll create a welcoming and stress-free environment, while ensuring the health and safety of all pets in the household.

Training & Socialization

Training and socialization are the building blocks of a well-behaved and happy pet! Start by establishing a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and exercise, helping your furry friend feel secure and confident in their environment.

Early training sessions are key for teaching obedience and house manners, setting the stage for a harmonious household. But it’s not all work and no play – socialization is equally important! Give your pet chances to meet other animals and people, like in puppy classes, playdates, or park walks.

It’s a good idea to prioritize safety, especially if your pet isn’t fully vaccinated yet. With patience, positive reinforcement, and plenty of love, you’ll have a well-rounded companion who’s ready to take on the world!

Preparing for a new furry friend is an exciting journey filled with love, laughter, and a few essential must-haves. From researching your pet’s specific needs to creating a safe and welcoming environment, we know you’ve got this.

Remember the importance of routine, training, and socialization in fostering a happy and well-adjusted pet. Cherish the joy and fulfillment that comes with responsible pet ownership – the wagging tails, the playful purrs, and the unconditional love that brightens our days.

As you embark on this adventure, be patient and compassionate as your new pet adjusts to their forever home. With a little time, plenty of cuddles, and heaps of love, you’ll create a bond that lasts forever. Here’s to many sloppy kisses and endless memories with your new furry family member!

Flea and Tick Prevention

As the snow thaws and we start to see the grass it is also flea and tick season. While fleas can be around year long, we start to see more ticks once the temperatures are around 4°C. Ticks can typically be found in tall grass and wooded areas, whereas fleas are in shady, leafy, debris piles and underneath decks, but also inside homes in the carpet and under furniture.

When either insect bites it can lead to infection or the transmission of diseases. Fleas commonly cause tapeworm infections and skin conditions referred to as flea dermatitis. There are many tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis and more. These diseases and infections are zoonotic and can transfer to humans.

Prevention Methods & Treatment

Collars

When it comes to flea collars, make sure to read the package as some only kill fleas or adult fleas and ticks while others also kill flea eggs. The duration of effectiveness may vary between product as well, while some protect against fleas for 5 months and ticks for 4 months, some repel both for up to 7 months.

It can be kept on during a bath or swimming, but this may result in you having to replace it sooner. Never replace more often than 3 or 4 months, dependent on product. The collar must be applied tight enough to have skin contact or it may not be as effective.

Topical Treatments

Some topical treatments for pets only offer protection against fleas and/or flea eggs but not ticks, so keep that in mind if you need tick protection as well. These types of treatments usually last four weeks.

To apply, part the hair between the shoulder blades. This is safest as they are unable to lick off the product here. Then squeeze contents directly onto the skin. Topical treatments should be left to dry for at least 2 days before bathing or swimming. They should not be applied to already irritated, inflamed, or broken skin.

These topical treatments are based on the pets’ weight so also make sure you get the correct product for the current weight of your pet. These products are also available specifically for cat and dog, never give a cat a product meant for a dog and vice versa.

Be extra careful in multiple pet households. Pets may be able to lick the product off each other or transfer the product which may be a concern for overdosing. Some side effects that can be much worse with overdosing are anxiousness, itchiness, gastrointestinal upset, and irritation to the skin.

Shampoos

The benefit of the shampoo is that the fastest way to kill fleas and ticks is to expose them directly to a wet insecticide. The product is applied directly to the coat, massaging in to reach the skin to cover all areas the fleas or ticks would be. This will take care of adult fleas, flea eggs, and ticks for up to 4 weeks.

The products usually include soothing ingredients like oatmeal, coconut oil, lanolin, and aloe to help with the sensitive or dry skin that sometimes results. The shampoo should not be used on broken or already irritated skin. Treatment once a month is the general suggestion, but always read the labels and directions.

Sprays

There are more natural products, like repellent sprays, that do not include the harsh chemicals or smells that may appear in some of the previous options. Many sprays use essential oils such as citronella and tea tree oil, which can be harmful for cats. Always check the label to ensure it is safe to use for both cats and dogs, if applicable.

Typically, these are not safe for pets under 12 weeks of age. This option is meant to provide protection without the skin irritation. Some repellant sprays protect against adult fleas, flea eggs and ticks while some only protect against one or the other. These range from needing application each time they can potentially be exposed, to needing application every 2 weeks.

Ultrasonic Repeller

Tickless is an excellent product for repelling fleas and ticks as well. It uses ultrasonic pulses that are imperceptible to humans and pets. The pulses disorient the parasites, which makes them stay away from your pet.

The device is designed for preventive purposes and does not remove ticks or fleas that are already present on an infected pet. They have done tests showing a 94% efficiency against ticks. Of course, effectiveness does depend on the condition of the animal’s coat and how heavily populated with ticks that area is.

It is odour free with no chemicals, so it is safe for all ages, sizes, and health conditions, as well as pregnant and nursing pets. Keeps pests away for at least 6 months after activation. It comes in two sizes and an assortment of colours for you to choose from.

The device is not waterproof, but moisture resistant. If the device gets wet, dry it off immediately to avoid any water damage. Due to its small size, it may be a choking hazard, always have it clipped to the collar or out of pets’ and children’s reach.

Diatomaceous Earth

Another more natural option is diatomaceous earth. It is an odourless, non-staining powder made from the sediment of fossilized algae. The microscopic sharp edges pierce the exoskeleton of the pests and dehydrates them; it also kills them by absorbing all the oils and fats within. It is very important to only use food grade instead of the filtered grade as this can be harmful.

To help with fleas and ticks, sprinkle liberally over pet’s body, focusing on problem areas like around the ears as well as the stomach and hind end. Work it through their coat to reach their skin. You can wash it off after 8 hours with a gentle shampoo and conditioner to rehydrate the skin and coat. The powder can be applied once a day for seven days in severe cases, repeat if needed.

They do not recommend giving to pets who already struggle with dry skin or respiratory issues. Always take care to not get in in the eyes or around mouth or nose. Can be harmful if ingested in substantial amounts as it can accumulate in the lungs. It is known to help with other external pests like ants, bed bugs, and cockroaches.

Is it necessary to treat the home and yard?

Since fleas and ticks can move around, they can fall off the effected animal onto the furniture or carpets infesting the house. The fleas you see on your pet are only 5% of what the total flea population would be in their environment.

Ninety-five percent of the fleas found in the home and yard are in the form of eggs, larvae, and pupae. This means that treating just the pet does not rid your home of the pests. To treat the home and yard there are a few options.

There is what is a “premise spray” which is only meant to be used in the environment, spraying beds, curtains, carpets etc., but never spray on the pet. It is designed to be used in conjunction with on-animal treatments.

Treatment kills fleas and ticks, providing typically 7 months of protection. If pest infestation persists, treatment may need to be repeated 2-3 weeks after initial treatment. Diatomaceous earth can also be used in the home and outside.

For inside, sprinkle all over floor, carpet, bedding, and furniture. After 3-4 days you can vacuum it up from all surfaces and mop or wipe them down. For outside, it is recommended to apply across the whole yard, though make sure to not do it on a day that it is raining, can be reapplied each month as needed.

How to safely remove a tick

The longer a tick is attached, the more likely it will transmit bacteria which may lead to infections and/or diseases. To contract Lyme disease, the tick must be attached for 1-2 days. You want to avoid tearing or squishing the tick as you may be spreading more bacteria into the bite area.

You want to spread the fur, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and gently pull straight upward in a slow motion. This prevents the tick’s mouth from remaining in the skin.

It is never recommended to use your fingers to remove a tick. You don’t want to risk squeezing more bacteria into the bite site. There are many products specially made for safe tick removal, otherwise a fine tipped pair of tweezers would be best.

Resources

E-tick and the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) stand as vital resources for pet parents, offering valuable insights and tools to safeguard their furry companions’ health. E-tick’s up-to-date information on tick species and their distribution aids in targeted tick bite prevention campaigns and population control measures, empowering pet owners with crucial knowledge to protect their pets from tick-borne diseases. (https://www.etick.ca/etickapp/en/ticks/public/map).

Meanwhile, CAPC, established in 2002, serves as a beacon of knowledge and advocacy, tirelessly working to raise awareness about the dangers parasites pose to pets and families alike. Through the distribution of accurate and timely information on diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control of parasitic infections, CAPC equips both pet owners and veterinary professionals with the resources they need to ensure the well-being of their beloved animals. (https://capcvet.org/maps/#/2024/all-year/lyme-disease/dog/canada).

As a reminder, always make sure the product you are using is safe for your pet whether cat or dog, as well as their age and health. Ensure you are picking a product that protects against all the pests you are concerned about, as protection does vary. Most products are not safe for pregnant or nursing pets. If ever unsure, you can always ask our healthy pet care specialists in store for advice.