Yes. We recommend that dogs and cats be kept on appropriate and effective parasite preventatives all
12 months of the year, no matter the season or temperature. Why is this?
Preventative medications are used to keep your pet from contracting parasites such as fleas, ticks,
heartworms, intestinal parasites (worms) AND the potentially fatal diseases that these parasites can
transmit such as Lyme disease. Parasites and their diseases affect not only pets, but can also affect you
your family members.
We commonly see pets come in to CHVA with fleas and ticks deep into the winter months. If you have
ever seen a stinkbug or spider in your house during the winter then you also know that insects find
warm places to survive the cold. This includes the deer tick, the tick responsible for transmitting Lyme
disease to people and pets-who is actually MORE active during the COLDER months of the year due to its
lifecycle.

Since the staff is running around like crazy right now I felt like I needed to make myself useful.  I know, I know.. I haven't been the most productive clinic cat, but I do know how to make them smile during this trying time! :) 
I punched some numbers (that's a figure of speech...I can do all this math in my head) - Take a look!

The weather is getting colder, and no matter your thoughts on the impending winter, there is one thing we can all agree on – keeping our four-legged family members safe and happy.  Remember if it is too cold for you outdoors, it is probably too cold for your pet. Keep them indoors as much as possible.
 
Cats often seek shelter in or around vehicles during the winter months. Make sure you bang the hood or honk the horn before starting up and driving off, giving the cat time to move.
 
Does your short-haired dog seemed bothered by the colder weather? Try a dog sweater or jacket to keep him warm during outdoor time.
 
Winter can be especially dangerous to cats.  A house-cat can slip outside and get lost and disorientated in the cold.  The best way to ensure your loved makes it home, is through proper identification.  Collars and tags can get removed or lost. The best permanent identification is microchipping.  Make sure you keep your pet’s microchip registry up to date to ensure the quickest reunion!
 
After any brisk winter walks, make sure to use a towel and clean your dog’s belly and feet, washing away and ice-melt products or other chemicals they may have come in contact with.  While you are at it, check for any wintery damage to their paws (cracks, sores and/or bleeding).  Give us a call with any concerns!
 
Just like in the summer, cats and dogs should never be left unattended in vehicles.  Cars cool down rapidly in cold weather, and can turn into refrigerators!