During the warmer months of the year mainly ticks ectoparasites (ticks) and Fleas are a serious problem. Ticks are hematophagous parasites responsible for the transmission of diseases, such as ehrlichiosis and babesiosis. These diseases are usually treated easily and effectively enough to make early diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Caution if you see an animal we currently presenting depression, anorexia, fever, gastrointestinal problems, small dot hemorrhages in the oral cavity, skin, or epistaxis.

There is a serious chance to have contracted one of these diseases. The treatment achieved by the administration of an antibiotic (tetracycline) usually for 14 to 30 days. Furthermore, it can be done and two intramuscular injections with imidocarb propionate difference between the fourteen days.

Mosquitoes and gnats can infect dogs. A gnat (Phlebotomist) is responsible for transmitting a very serious disease of leishmaniosis (kala azar) and responds to almost the entire Greek territory. Also, a mosquito is responsible for transmitting a disease of heartworm disease is detected but in certain areas of Greece and it seems there is no problem in Attica. If the animal is presented to us paying forces, weight loss, eye swabs or nose, poor coat quality, non-healing wounds, nosebleeds, etc., need an immediate transfer of the animal to a vet to check if sick of leishmaniosis . Good to be screening once or twice a year in all animals. As regards the adult heartworms in endemic areas should be watching if the animal presents fatigue which is the first and most important clinical sign.

Recommended from April to October to take the following measures:

• placing a cartridge for the ectoparasite per month
• antiparasitic collars use
• use repellents media

eve of the dog in the evening in places protected from mosquitoes and gnats.
Anastasios A. Boyd

D.V.M Veterinarian