The hot and rainy season has officially begun, and that means ticks and fleas are out in full force, ready to trouble your furry friends.

Biliary is a serious tick-borne disease transmitted to dogs through the saliva of infected ticks. If left untreated, it can cause severe illness or even death.

Symptoms to watch for include:

• Loss of appetite
• Drooped head
• Ocular membranes and gums appearing pale or off colour

“If your dog shows any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately,” said Annie Jungmann of The Animal Guardians (TAG). “A blood smear will determine parasite levels, which guide treatment. Early detection can make treatment relatively inexpensive and effective. Once jaundice-like symptoms appear, urgent blood transfusions may be required to save your pet.”

Prevention tips:

• Give weekly dips or baths using medicated tick and flea shampoos
• Use animal- and size-specific preventative treatments and powders as instructed
• Regularly wash and treat animal bedding
• On a tight budget? Cheaper off-the-shelf products can be as effective as veterinary brands. Any protection is better than none.

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