A Blood Sucking Parasite is Infecting Dogs at Dog Parks in Billings

 This isn’t to scare you, it’s to keep you aware of what’s happening 

Our lovely editor of Town Square Media named Rachel, informed me yesterday after her doggie’s vet appointment that a parasite is affecting Billings Dog Parks. While it’s rare for humans to get infected with these tiny bugs, it’s not impossible. Dogs who catch the lice are contagious to other dogs and cats.

These pesky bugs can live on bedding, couches, etc. This makes Lice difficult to get rid of, but it must be done in order to stop the spread, or re-infection.  

Why you need to check your dog for lice 

Lice are blood sucking little bugs that can cause blood loss and anemia in our furry four-legged friends. I call them tiny, vapid vampires... just for comedic relief. You will see little eggs grouped together usually all in the same area. But not always. Check carefully. 

Vet at Home suggests doing the following if your dog has been affected with lice. 

Step 1. Always check with a vet if you see little tiny egg sacks or if your dog can’t stop itching. Lice love to live behind the ears, leg pits, and in dark, damp areas of dogs. Check their fur, preferably outside or in the bath tub.  

Step 2. The vet will probably recommend the topical treatment to kill the larva... I KNOW, this is so nasty. They do the same treatment for fleas and ticks.  

Step 3.  As the last resort, get the Lice-Killing shampoo. It can also be used to target nits and according to vets, you must follow a strict schedule to stop the life cycle of dog lice. 

Step 4. Launder all bedding, with hot water, and highest heat your dryer can go. The heat kills the parasite. You must aggressively vacuum your couch and bed if the dog lies on the furniture.  

Always contact the vet first with any questions about treatment products for lice. 

Depending on your pet’s breed, they may be able to receive an injection administered by your vet. This injection can prevent dog lice from hatching (so nasty), but it is not considered safe for every pet.  

I know I'll be avoiding dog parks around Billings for awhile. Flea and tick season is right around the corner, stay vigilant ya'll!