Cold war on fleas

By Tania Martin
MONBULK veterinarian Andrew Byrne said, as autumn approaches, pet owners should get ready to batten down the hatches and make sure their dogs, cats, chooks, and goats have good shelter for the colder months.
Mr Byrne said it is also a good time to fix that leaky roof in the dog kennel so that when it rains, your pet doesn’t get sick.
He said as the flea season is coming to an end, it is a good idea to give your cat or dog an extra dose of treatment either using Frontline or Advantage.
Mr Byrne said this extra flea treatment will make sure no eggs are carried through to the next season.
“Autumn is also the time to watch out for wombat mange, but there is nothing pet owners can really do to prevent it except from keeping their dogs and cats away from wombats and foxes,” he said.
Mr Byrne said pet owners should also think about purchasing a coat for their dog or cat as the colder months draw closer.
He said autumn was also the time of the year for the last of the frustrating skin problems like fungal skin conditions and bacteria infections.
“Pet owners need to make sure the skin infections are cleared up as you don’t want to be shaving you dog over winter,” Mr Byrne said.
Mr Byrne said a final pet-care tip for autumn is for dog and cat owners to talk to their local veterinarian about planning for the colder months and the onset of arthritis with pets.