Source: TheStarPress.com

By Roger Smith, DVM

Q: I know about fleas, but what other types of bugs do I have to worry about on my outside pets?

A: Your pets might be enjoying the warm weather of spring. Unfortunately, it also brings an increased risk of parasites, both internal and external. Some of the peskiest pet pests include:

Fleas: As mentioned in your question, these are undoubtedly the most common external parasite in this area. A single flea can bite up to 400 times and consume up to 15 times her own body weight in blood in a single day. Many pets are allergic to flea bites and will scratch intensely after even a few bites.

Ticks: Dogs usually pickup these tiny terrors when running through tall grass or wooded areas. They can be infested by the six-legged nymphs (immature tick) or eight-legged adults. A tick can lay up to 3,000 eggs after obtaining a blood meal from your dog. Some ticks also carry diseases people can catch such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Mosquitoes: An annoyance to man or beast, these flying blood-suckers can transmit heartworm disease to your dog or cat with a single bite. Some pets might also develop a rash from sensitivity to the bites, which commonly occur around the face and ears.

Flies: Many varieties of biting flies can be an aggravation to outdoor pets. The bites can cause itching and subsequent skin infection.

Mites: These itsy-bitsy bugs you won't see, but that doesn't keep them from causing severe inflammation and itching in your pets skin. Sarcoptic and Demodectic mange are both caused by mites. Ear mites infest the ear canals, causing itching and head shaking.

The key to dealing with all these potential parasites is prevention. Keep your pet treated with a good quality flea and tick control product (many are available with once-monthly dosing) and have your pet checked by your vet for any significant skin problem.