How to protect your dog from mosquitoes
Do mosquitoes bite dogs?
Just as mosquitoes bite humans, they can also bite dogs. And just like in people, mosquito bites are uncomfortable, and can cause irritation and infect your pet with dangerous diseases. Luckily, there are several ways you can prevent mosquito bites.
1. Repel mosquitos on your pet
Speak to your vet about choosing a dog-safe mosquito repellant. Some repellants come in spray form and must be applied to your dog before every outing (and
reapplied every few hours). More convenient options include spot-on treatments such as Advantix® for dogs, which repels and kills the mosquitoes responsible for heartworm transmission. Additionally, Advantix’s easy-to-apply spot-on treatment protects your dog against fleas, ticks (including the deadly Australian paralysis tick), lice and other flying insects like sand flies and stable flies.
Never use a mosquito repellant meant for humans – many contain ingredients that are safe for people but extremely dangerous for pets.
2. Avoid being outside when mosquitoes are more active
While you may enjoy a morning or evening walk with your dog, you should avoid walking near still or stagnant water at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. This will guard against your dog – and you – receiving excessive bites.
3. Repel mosquitoes in your backyard
Discourage mosquitoes from buzzing into your garden by treating your backyard with a spray or adding natural mosquito deterrent like citronella candles. In addition, watch out for stagnant water in your yard: dog bowls, empty flower pots, bird baths, ponds, kiddie pools and improperly drained yards can all attract mosquitoes.
4. Check the entrances to your home
Don’t make it easy for mosquitoes to enter your house. Check the screens on windows and doors for tears, and repair or replace as necessary.
5. Prevent heartworm with regular treatment
While these preventative measurements can reduce your dog’s exposure to mosquitoes, it’s nearly impossible to prevent mosquito bites entirely. That’s why giving your dog regular heartworm medication is vital to their health and safety. Consult your vet for the recommended course of treatment to protect your pet from a potentially dangerous bite.
