Last Updated on January 6, 2022 by Griselda M.
If you’re wondering can mosquitoes bite dogs – the answer is yes! Go through our article to learn more about how to keep your canine safe!
Humans and mosquitoes have been at war ever since they discovered each other. And, we wouldn’t blame you for thinking your pets were safe from the onslaught. However, that’s not entirely true. Despite your doggo’s body being covered with fur, it’s still at risk from bites from the pesky, flying menace.
So, what are dog parents to do? Well, to begin with, you can read our article to learn more about protecting your canines from mosquito bites. Plus, we’ve also included the dangers canines may face from mosquito bites so you can be extra vigilant.
Can Mosquitoes Bite Dogs Through Their Fur?
If you thought your furry friend was safe from mosquito bites – think again. Mosquitoes may not have the kind of freedom while biting cats or dogs as they do when they’re going after humans. However, that doesn’t stop them from trying. It’s quite common for dogs to get bitten where their fur is thin. So, your furball is vulnerable to bites around its nose and ears.
But, another important question is – are canines prone to developing any parasite-related diseases carried by mosquitoes? That’s what we’re going to cover next.
Dangers Of Mosquito Bites For Dogs
Dogs and cats can face the same irritation and itching with mosquito bites as we do. And, while that’s a problem, there’s an even bigger concern for canine parents.
Mosquitoes are known to carry certain parasites. For example, you’ve probably heard that humans can contract malaria through a mosquito bite. Similarly, dogs are at risk of developing health concerns from heartworm. Heartworm is a parasite that can enter the host through a mosquito bite. It can cause lung and heart infections in canines that can be life-threatening. And, what’s more, it’s pretty common in the U.S.
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A mosquito’s life cycle spans over about two weeks. However, in areas with high moisture levels, their life cycle can be as quick as four days. That’s why mosquito season peaks during the summer. Hundreds and thousands of mosquitoes are born during the summer months and have the ability to bite and infect your pets. Accordingly, mosquito bites on dogs should be a major concern as soon as summer comes around.
5 Ways To Keep Mosquitoes From Biting Your Dogs
You know the only search term more popular than can dogs get mosquito bites is how to protect dogs from mosquitoes? If you’re looking for practical ways to keep your canine safe from the dangers of mosquito bites – this section is for you!
1. Prevent Mosquitoes From Entering Your Home
It may sound like a tall order, but take precautions to keep mosquitoes out of your home when summer rolls around. You can do this by putting up fly screens on your doors and windows. Another safe option is relying on essential oils like lemon-eucalyptus oil – as it’s safe around humans and pets. Additionally, get rid of any stagnant water source around the house because it makes for the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.
2. Use A Dog-Friendly Mosquito Repellent Spray
Mosquito repellents can go a long way in keeping you and your dogs safe from mosquitoes. However, you can’t spray the same spray you use on your dogs. Thankfully, there are plenty of dog-friendly mosquito-repellent sprays on the market that you can utilize to keep your furball safe.
These sprays are easily available in pet stores, and major online retails sites. Be sure to use the spray on your pet any time you venture outside to ensure it’s protected from all manner of insects.
3. Avoid Taking Your Pet Out When Mosquitoes Are Active
Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn hours. That means the chances of your pet being bitten while outdoors are highest during these periods. One simple way of ensuring your pet is safe from mosquito bites is not taking it out during the early morning or sunset hours. Instead, try and tweak your schedule to other times and keep yourself and your furbaby safe from mosquito bites.
4. Keep Mosquitoes Away From The Yard To Prevent Them From Biting Dogs
Dog owners asking can mosquitoes bite dogs is a natural reaction to seeing the steep growth in mosquito populations during summertime. You can keep your canine safe from bites by discouraging insects from your yard and garden areas.
One stellar method of doing this is having your yard sprayed and using natural deterrents like citronella candles. Also, if possible, you can plant eucalyptus trees in your garden. These plants grow really fast, and their powerful smell can repel all manner of pests, like mosquitoes, ticks, sandflies, etc.
Be sure to regularly replace the water in your pet’s bowls, vases, and birdbaths to ensure that the mosquitoes don’t find any breeding grounds around your home.
5. Keep Up With Your Canine’s Heartworm Medication
You can’t avoid mosquito bites for you and your pet completely – despite all the precautions you take. That’s why you should consult your veterinarian about heartworm medications. That way, even if your furbaby gets a bite or two, it’ll still be safe from the complications that the parasite can cause.
However, remember that most heartworm-preventive medicines are administered multiple times throughout the year to provide complete protection. So, you’re also going to have to keep up with your pet’s heartworm medication schedule for as long as your vet thinks it’s necessary.
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Conclusion
Humans and pets are vulnerable to mosquito bites. However, just asking can mosquitoes bite dogs may not be enough to safeguard your canine’s well-being. That’s because dogs are vulnerable to the heartworm parasite that mosquitoes carry. Thankfully, you can avoid the life-threatening infections that canines can develop by taking preventive measures around your house.
Another way to protect your furbaby from mosquito-related illnesses is by consulting your vet about heartworm medications. Apart from that, you can your canine should get through the summer months just fine. Just remember to gear up with the tips and tricks mentioned here and enjoy a carefree existence with your lovable canine.
