Mosquitoes and Dogs: Keep Your Pup Safe This Season

Keep your dog safe from mosquitoes

It's probably safe to assume you and your dog like spending time outdoors in the summer. Walking, camping, hiking, bonfires, time at the lake or swimming pool ... as fun as they are, every one of those summer activities can increase your pup's chance of being mistaken for a mosquito's personal buffet.

Mosquito and fly bites are not only uncomfortable for your pet, they're also potentially dangerous. Deadly diseases like heartworm and West Nile Virus can be transmitted through bites, and although their fur coats help a little, pesky bugs can still wreck havoc. How to avoid bites this season? Read on.

1. Plan your time wisely - Mosquitoes are most active in the early morning and evening, so heading outside mid-morning or after should help. When dusk falls, retreat back inside.

2.  Screen it in - Screened-in porches offer great protection from rampant buzzies. You and your pup can still enjoy the fresh air, but your skin is stinger-safe.

3. Spritz on safety - There is no shortage of insect repellents on the market, but very few are safe for pets. Those containing DEET are toxic to animals when ingested in high doses; if licked off their fur or skin, DEET-containing products can lead to vomiting, seizures, drooling, and more.

Buzz Guard

We recommend a safe alternative like Buzz Guard. Made in the USA, Buzz Guard features neem seed oil and other pure essential oils like citronella, fir, geranium, rosewood, basil, and myrrh. Buzz Guard has a light, fresh scent and can be sprayed onto cloth, skin, or fur without leaving stains or sticky residue. Even the littlest furballs can use it - it's safe for puppies 8 weeks or older.

Enjoying the outdoors is one of the best parts of summer. Do it safely, and you and your dog can make great memories ... without the itchies!

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