Hematophagy is the habit of external parasites whereby they live off nutritious proteins and lipids contained in the blood of mammals including humans, birds, reptiles and amphibians. This habit is common with fleas as well as ticks. Adult fleas and ticks are a nuisance and are also responsible for medical problems including tapeworm infections, secondary skin irritations and anemia in extreme cases. Bites by fleas and ticks are rarely felt by the host but result in significant irritation. Flea and tick control is a major concern for individuals, households, and local and state governments worldwide. With problems regarding flea and tick control products in 2009, Health Canada has issued advisories and published information to educate consumers about measures best suited to tackle infestations.
Geography
Fleas and ticks are mostly found in hot and humid climates and their numbers reduce drastically in the winters. The peak season for flea and tick infestation in most parts of Canada is from early August to early October. While both parasites can survive throughout the year, their total numbers depend heavily on the general climate of the area; cold areas like Winnipeg and Saskatoon wouldn't suffer from any major infestation problems, but cities like Montreal and Ottawa that get extremely humid during winters are susceptible to fleas and ticks.
Effects
After complaints regarding the safety of pet products, has strictly regulated the production and sale of these products with assistance from its American counterparts. Some of the observations by Health Canada regarding "spot-on" products are:
• Skin effects were the most frequent symptoms in cats and dogs; other neuro-muscular such as tremors and gastrointestinal such as vomiting.
• The dose that is recommended for various weight ranges for flea and tick products may be too wide, causing smaller animals to receive high doses and experience serious effects.
• Dog products being applied to cats was a serious recurring problem, particularly since the active ingredient--Permethrin--is a chemical more commonly found in pesticides.
Detection
Fleas and ticks are generally attracted to pets, in turn, placing humans in close proximity at risk too. Symptoms like too much scratching by your or your neighbors' pets may be a signal of possible infestation problem. Also, ensure that you check high-risk areas like gardens and yards regularly.
Prevention
Various products are now available that help to prevent and/or cure possible infestations. Orally administered products include scheduled medicines like Frontline Plus and Advantage that serve as the best preventive measure, and there are others formulated to break the life cycle of fleas by preventing larvae from developing into adults. Medicines are also available in case of a parasite outbreak; to prevent a possible recurrence, it is important to sanitize your house including garden space, groom your pet(s) regularly and vacuum frequently.
Considerations
Identify the pest correctly and use targeted pesticides to eliminate fleas and ticks; physical control methods and alternatives to pesticides are better options. Read the pesticide labels carefully and follow the prescribed instructions. Provide adequate ventilation to the treated areas and restrict direct contact with treated surfaces until the residue has completely dried.
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