Are Mosquitoes Dangerous to Dogs in Macomb County, MI?

Dogs and cats are as susceptible to mosquito bites just like humans are. The problem is the protective repellants that humans use can be toxic to animals. One danger is if a mosquito bites an animal infected with heartworm, then bites you pet. The babies can transfer from the original host to your pet, where they grow and mature into adult heartworm.

When it comes to mosquitoes and dogs, there are other concerns you need to be aware of to keep your pet safe. You may be wondering, are mosquitoes dangerous to dogs? Keep reading to learn about mosquito control and keeping your dog safe in Macomb County.

Mosquitoes and Dogs: Danger Spots

Your fur babies spend a lot more time outside, romping through high grass and other areas prone to greater numbers of mosquitoes. The fur on dogs and cats provides some protection, but it is possible for them to receive a bite through their fur. The areas that are most susceptible to mosquito bites include the nose, mouth, belly, and ears.

Even with less susceptible body areas, mosquitoes and pets are not a good mix. Mosquitoes carry several diseases, including:

  • Chikungunya Virus—primarily transferred through mosquito bites
  • Dengue Fever—a mosquito-borne tropical disease 
  • Malaria—serious to fatal disease transmitted through mosquito bites
  • West Nile Virus—serious to life-threatening for humans, severe in some dogs
  • Zika Virus—causes horrible birth defects if contacted by the fetus in the womb
  • Heartworm—life-threatening to animals

The most serious to humans is the West Nile virus. The most serious to dogs and cats is heartworm.

Heartworm disease results from foot-long worms residing in the blood vessels, lungs, and heart of the infected animal. The disease seriously damages the organs, leading to severe lung disease and heart failure.

In Michigan, heartworm is common in the lower peninsula, diagnosed in the upper peninsula. Wild animals in Michigan carrying the parasite include the gray fox, red fox, and coyote.

Signs of a Bite

If a mosquito bites your dog through its fur, you don’t see the bite area. Some dogs receive several bites with no reaction. Others will react to the bite, developing redness, a rash, or itching.

Animals spending a lot of time outdoors may develop skin lesions on their ears and nose If you are not using heartworm prevention medicine on your dog, speak with your veterinarian. This is especially important if there is a chance of your pet having been bitten.

Mosquito Prevention

At one time, mosquitos were only prevalent at dawn and dusk. Now imported breeds of these pesky biters are active all day. Mosquito control-based measures include keeping your yard free of standing water.

Non-moving water is a breeding ground for mosquitos. Steer clear of areas with standing water when walking with your pet.

If your dog lays outside on a porch or patio, set up a box fan. The blowing air prevents those tiny biters from biting by blowing them out of the area.

Some plants serve as a natural mosquito repellent. This includes catnip, basil, lavender, peppermint, lemon balm, and rosemary.

You can speak with your veterinarian about pet-safe mosquito repellents. You also need to make sure your pet is receiving heartworm treatment all year.

Mosquito treatment is based on keeping your yard and garden mosquito-free. This is important for both humans and pets. All 48 of the contiguous states have human West Nile virus cases.

One of the best ways to keep your yard mosquito-free is spray treatment from Mosquito One. There is minimal downtime following treatment and mosquito eradication lasts up to four weeks.

With a 100% satisfaction guarantee and treatments by trained, licensed professionals you can’t go wrong. We provide services in northwest Ohio and the counties of Livingston, Wayne, Oakland, Monroe, Washtenaw, and Macomb in Michigan.

Protect Your Pet

If you are ready to protect your pet from the dangerous combination of mosquitos and dogs, call Mosquito One. Our professionals will apply a mosquito treatment spray that keeps you, your fur babies, and your family safe.

Shop our website for the plan that suits you best and schedule your treatment today.

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