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Fleas in kennels
Pet caught worms at kennels
Prevent worms in pets
Prevent fleas
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Is my dog more at risk of fleas and worms at the kennels?
- By Katie
-
- October 2, 2024
- 3 MIN READ
As much as we want to take our furballs everywhere with us, sometimes it's not always an option. For most of us, pet accommodation comes in handy for when we need our pooches to be looked after whilst we are on holiday - after all in the UK, we spend a whopping £3 billion on using kennels or catteries every year*. But as you hop on a plane, what happens if fleas hop on your pet?
Fleas in kennels
Fleas can make any dog’s life miserable, causing itching, irritation, and even allergic reactions. So, are kennels a hotbed for flea infestations?
In short, not necessarily. Reputable kennels take rigorous measures to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. They understand that their clients expect a high standard of care, which includes keeping the environment free of parasites like fleas. Most kennels implement regular cleaning schedules, use insecticides, and have protocols in place to deal with any outbreaks swiftly.
However, it's important to acknowledge that fleas can be quite resourceful. They can hitch a ride on a dog entering the kennel and spread quickly if not managed effectively. This means that while the risk is controlled, it can never be entirely eliminated. So, it’s a really good idea to ensure your dog is treated with a flea preventative before they go to the kennels, like Itch Flea treatment for Dogs.
Pet caught worms at kennels
The wriggly world of worms - there are several types of worms that can affect dogs, including roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Kennels are definitely a place where worms can spread, mainly because there are a lot of dogs sharing a small space. Worms are often transmitted through faecal matter, which means that in a kennel setting, if one dog is infected and the area isn’t cleaned promptly and thoroughly, the risk of transmission increases.
Good kennels will have stringent cleaning protocols and regular deworming schedules for their dog guests, to mitigate this risk. However, just like with fleas, no environment can be 100% risk-free. It’s crucial to maintain a regular deworming schedule for your dog, whether or not they frequently visit kennels, using monthly treatment like Itch Wormer for Dogs.
Prevent worms in pets
Preventing worms is all about being proactive. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your pet:
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Regular deworming
Ensure your dog is on a regular deworming schedule as recommended by your vet. Puppies need to be dewormed more frequently, while adult dogs typically require treatment every three months.
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Clean up after your dog
Always pick up your dog’s poop promptly, both in your garden and when out on walks. This helps prevent the spread of worm eggs.
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Regular vet check-ups
Routine visits to the vets will detect any early signs of worms and your pooch can receive necessary treatment.
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Kennel selection
Choose kennels with a good reputation for hygiene and animal care. Don’t be afraid to ask about their cleaning protocols and deworming policies.
Prevent fleas
Preventing fleas involves a combination of good habits and preventative treatments. Here are some tips to keep your dog flea-free:
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Flea treatments
Use vet-approved flea treatments regularly, to be a hop ahead of them pesky parasites. Try the Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs to kill all adult fleas, ticks and lice in 24 hours!
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Regular grooming
Brush your dog’s fur regularly to check for any signs of fleas. This also helps in distributing natural oils that keep their skin and coat healthy.
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Clean environment
Keep your home and garden clean. Hoover regularly, wash your dog’s bedding, and consider treating areas where your dog spends a lot of time with flea control products. For instance, use a fast-acting flea treatment that frees your space from fleas, because 95% of fleas live in your environment, not actually on your pet. Try the Itch Flea Home Spray for Homes to get rid of fleas for up to 12 months!
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Check before kennelling
Before taking your dog to a kennel, ensure they’re up-to-date on flea treatments. It’s also worth giving them a thorough check up once you bring them home.
While kennels do pose a risk of fleas and worms, make sure to do your research and only send your pet to accommodation that works hard to minimise parasite risks. Being proactive and using preventative treatments regularly on your pet is the best way to get rid of fleas and worms!
Where we got the facts from:
*Direct Line Group, 2017, Source: https://www.directlinegroup.co.uk/en/news/brand-news/2017/brits-spend-p3-billion-on-pet-holiday-accommodation-and-care-eve.html
Get rid of fleas, ticks AND lice... and stop them coming back!
Fleas, ticks and lice can be a nightmare, but with the right approach, you can take control and rid your pets and home of these bothersome pests. Remember that parasites can be persistent, so patience and regular treatment will be your best friends! By addressing both your pet and their environment, you can ensure a flea-free and comfortable living space for both your furry companion and your family.
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