(Topeka, KS) – Summer is prime time for pet pests such as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. Although animals tend to view pests as merely annoyances, they can pose substantial health risks to both the pets and their owners.

“These pests are known to transmit some potentially serious diseases like West Nile Virus, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme disease to animals and their human family,” said Brent Boles, Schendel president.  “Dogs can also contract heartworm disease through mosquito bites — an expensive illness to treat if it’s not detected early.”

Though small, these bugs are no small concern. Fleas are known for biting, leaving behind itchy, red bumps that cause Fido to scratch excessively. Flea saliva can also cause conditions such as anemia and flea allergy dermatitis and can transfer tapeworms.

Ticks can be equally as hazardous to family pets. Female ticks can attach near a pet’s spinal cord, causing “tick paralysis.” The condition causes muscle weakness, loss of coordination and, in some cases, death from respiratory failure as chest muscles become paralyzed. And as dogs are more likely than humans to pick up ticks while outdoors, they are more likely to contract Lyme disease.

Mosquitoes also pose a threat to dogs as several species can be vectors of heartworm parasites, which are deposited as the mosquito feeds on the animal. Each year, thousands of dogs become disabled or die from problems caused by heartworm disease.

Another major concern is property infestation. Pet pests can breed quickly and are difficult to locate once inside the home. “Fleas and ticks typically remain on the warm-blooded host. Yet, flea eggs roll off the host and hatch in carpets, furniture and bedding,” says Boles. “The small size and mobility of these pests make them hard to eradicate without the help of a pest professional.”

The National Pest Management Association recommends these tips to help reduce your pet’s exposure to fleas and ticks:

• Check pets frequently for ticks, fleas and flea dirt. Be aware of excessive scratching, licking and nibbling behavior in pets.
• Avoid walking the dogs in tall grass, where there is a greater chance of fleas hitching a ride.
• Avoid tick habitats such as low-growing brushy vegetation along the edge of the woods or a trail. Check pets after a walk near or in such areas.
• Bathe pets after walks or playtime with other animals.
• Frequently wash pet bedding, collars and plush toys.
• Wash bed linens and vacuum carpets, floors and furniture frequently. Empty vacuum bags in an outside receptacle.
• If you suspect a pest problem, contact a licensed pest professional immediately to treat the problem in your home, and contact your veterinarian for treatment to relieve flea or tick symptoms for your pet.

About Schendel Pest:  Schendel Pest Services has provided complete pest management services to commercial, industrial, and residential clients since 1947.  Schendel’s corporate office is located in Topeka, Kansas and Schendel provides services to customers in five states – Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.  Additionally, Schendel Pest Services is a partner with Copesan Services, which enables the company to sell and service commercial accounts on a national basis.

Contact:  Julie Johnson, Schendel Pest Services, 1-785-233-3332, Ext. 114

Julie@pestzero.com   www.schendelpest.com