The Dangers of Mosquitos

Protecting your from these pesky pests.

After Hurricane Debby, we experienced weather conditions ideal for mosquito breeding. We've been actively combating this issue over the past month, and it feels like a losing battle! 

Mosquitos are not just annoying with their itchy stings and bumps, but they also pose a severe health risk. They can transmit diseases, parasites, and bacteria to humans and pets. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it can pass on deadly parasites like heartworms to others.

While there is no pawfect solution to completely eliminate mosquitos, you can take safe and effective steps to protect your family by implementing the 4 D's, empowering you to take control of the situation.

DEFEND

• Keep your pets up to date with their vaccinations and preventative medications.

• Treat your lawns with pet-friendly repellents. 

• Wear EPA-approved repellent outdoors containing DEET, Picaridin, OLE, PMD, 2-undecanoate, and IR3535. (Resource: www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you)

DRESS

• Wear closed-toe shoes, light-colored clothing, long sleeves, and pants! (That's why you always see me in long sleeves, yoga pants, and sneakers!)

• Wear repellent on exposed skin. 

DRAIN

• Mosquitos LOVE standing water, so ensure gutters are cleared and adequately drained. 

• Flip over and empty any water-collecting receptacles such as buckets, basketball goals, flower pots, kiddie pools, bird baths, etc. 

FROM DUSK TO DAWN (not the movie, but just as scary!)

Mosquitos do not like sunlight. They need constant moisture and thrive in shaded areas with humidity. Therefore, avoid going outside during their most active times. 

Pet-Friendly Mosquito Repellents

Human mosquito spray and other repellents are NOT pet-safe! However, here is a list of pet-friendly products that may work for you and your fur babies.

• Vet's Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray for Dogs & Cats

• Martin's Permethrin 36.8% SFR Concentrate Termiticide & Insecticide

• Insect Shield Protective Safety Vest for Dogs

• AEGIS BUG-OFF CLIPS, Repelling Flea, Tick & Mosquito

• Safe Plants - Lavender, Basil, Lemon Balm, Rosemary & Marigolds

Resource: https://www.vdci.net/blog/are-mosquitoes-harmful-to-dogs-and-horses/