Insects and other arachnids such as ticks and mites directly and indirectly affect the well-being of our pets – directly by their bites and stings, and indirectly by disease transmission and allergies. Nuisance pests such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, mange mites, and the like can make life miserable at times for our pets. Insects and arachnids like mosquitoes and ticks may bite pets, causing serious diseases. Also, fleas can cause allergic skin reactions in dogs and cats prone to allergies.

Successful control of these pests requires preventive “maintenance,” correct pest identification when a problem occurs, and a sound knowledge of control options and how and when to apply control measures. Some of these control options can only be prescribed by a veterinarian. Insecticides are important tools for controlling insect and arachnids on pets around the home, but insecticides are only one of many methods of insect prevention and management. When insecticides are needed, knowing which insecticide to use and how to apply it safely is critical to obtaining effective control for minimum cost and effort.