MONROE, La. (KNOE) - As flea and tick season intensifies, veterinarians are advising pet owners to implement parasite prevention measures promptly. Waiting until fleas or ticks are visible can increase the risk to pets, according to veterinarian Kelsey Stokes from The Pet Parish Clinic in Monroe.
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Stokes emphasizes that consistent prevention is essential, even for pets that primarily stay indoors. "Getting them on a prevention before you see fleas and ticks is probably the number one thing that we can do," she stated. She also noted that many pet owners mistakenly believe that indoor pets are safe, explaining, "we can certainly see fleas come inside on people… or if you have inside cats they can travel inside on your dog that went outside."
In addition to fleas and ticks, Stokes highlighted the need for vigilance against New World screwworm infections, which can be fatal if left untreated. "These particular new-world screwworm larvae will feed on live tissue and they can enter through wounds or mucous membranes; so to think eyes, nose, mouth," she advised. Stokes recommends that pet owners check their animals daily for cuts or injuries and address any wounds immediately.
Experts suggest that prevention strategies may differ based on the type of pet—whether it be a dog, cat, or other animal—and encourage discussions with veterinarians to establish an effective protection plan.