Swift script: Use this veterinary study to help clients take FAD seriously

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Clients are sometimes reluctant to face the severity of flea allergy dermatitis and the ramifications that come with it if ignored. Use Banfield's most recent State of Pet Health Report next time a client gives you the runaround on flea prevention.

Client: I don't think my pets have a problem with fleas. My cat stays indoors and, yeah, my dog goes outside, but it's winter right now. And I don't even see any fleas in my house.

You: Even one flea bite can be a big problem. A recent study showed a 67 percent increase of flea allergy dermatitis in cats and a 13 percent increase in dogs over the last decade. More dogs and cats are being exposed to fleas, causing more dog and cats to be diagnosed with flea allergies.  

Fleas aren't just an issue during warmer months. Fleas are happy to be indoors where it's comfortable all the time, creating a year-round problem. Indoor cats still need flea preventives because another animal-or even a human-can bring fleas inside.

And, unfortunately, not seeing fleas doesn't mean they aren't there. Flea dirt and signs that your pet is itching more frequently are other indicators to watch for. The recent report also points out a relevant cat fact: Felines are meticulous groomers, meaning you may not see fleas but your cat could have still been exposed.  

You can help prevent FAD in your pets by preventing flea infestations by keeping all your pets on flea preventives year-round, whether they live indoors, outdoors or both.