Let's Talk TICKs

As a Gen X kid growing up in rural West TN ticks and dogs were always a summer activity in itself. There wasn't a form of tick or flea control to speak of in today's terms in our rural area of West TN. Maybe a flea collar, medicated shampoo from the local Fred's Family Dollar Store a town away. Vet treatment for when cases were really bad, otherwise it was me, dad and our Collies. A mason jar in hand half full of diesel or kerosene to put the ticks in after we picked them off. A garden hose and Dawn dish detergent for a bath, a good brushing and then it was time to pull the ticks off. Those were the 80's! Needless to say, in today's market of flea and tick control along with heartworm treatments it leaves me thankful as a pet owner. Not nearly as many moments are spent pulling off the creepy crawlies.

So, it comes to no surprise to me when an occasional tick is found on the Boykins. Pull and Flush easy peasy compared to the GenX childhood experience. Am I Right?

One of the most common questions for new puppy owners right after "What food do you feed?" is "What flea and tick control do you use? What Heartworm medication do you recommend?" To this, I will just tell you what I use. I am not a vet so this should not be seen as medical advice.

When Delta was a year old, we experienced her having a seizer with the tick control collar Seresto. Not long after placing it on her, she began to stare into space and stretch her neck upward. It could have come off as a funny looking puppy moment, but after owning pets for my entire life. One thing I have learned is, if they are physically doing something funny, more than likely it is a cry for help. So that is one product we no longer use.

My mentor and friend who owns the great grandfather Boykin to our bloodline recommended to me the once-a-year heartworm shot. After speaking with my vet, it is one of only 3 products that will work here in West TN for heartworms that are in this area of the country. Tennessee ranks HIGH in Heartworm Prevalence; therefore, it is recommended to have dogs on year around treatment. ProHeart 12. I choose this simply, so I won't forget to give it monthly. I mean there are so many other things to focus on as a Boykin mom, trainer, breeder, right? Monthly treatment like NexGard Plus can treat Fleas, Ticks and Heartworm in a monthly chewable. I have used it in the past and would recommend it for our area also.

K-9 Advantix has several topical lines of products which treat fleas & ticks plus its waterproof. We all know its hard to keep Boykins away from the water! So, for the past few years I have chosen to do the ProHeart 12 shot and use K-9 Advantix monthly. That is just a personal decision based on my lifestyle and research done. If you would like to hear more on my personal choices for your Boykin pup comment or message me. I will do a follow up blog on Food choices soon.

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