Living in County Mayo and the West of Ireland comes with its own unique challenges for pet owners. The region’s mild, wet climate creates an environment where certain parasites, diseases, and seasonal risks are more common. Ensuring your pet’s health and well-being requires proactive care, from vaccination schedules to parasite prevention.
Common Health Risks for Pets in Mayo
1. Tick and Flea Prevention
The West of Ireland’s humid conditions make it a hotspot for ticks and fleas, especially in rural and coastal areas. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, which affects both pets and humans. To protect your pet:
✅ Use vet-approved flea and tick treatments year-round.
✅ Check your pet’s fur after walks, especially in grassy or wooded areas.
✅ Keep bedding and living areas clean to prevent infestations.
2. Worming and Parasite Control
Internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and lungworms are common in pets and livestock. Dogs and cats can contract lungworm from slugs and snails, often found in gardens after rain. Preventative measures include:
✅ Regular deworming treatments as recommended by your vet.
✅ Avoiding stagnant water where parasites may thrive.
✅ Cleaning up pet waste promptly to prevent reinfection.
3. Vaccination Calendar for Pets
Maintaining a consistent vaccination schedule is essential to protect against high-risk diseases in Ireland:
- Dogs: Parvovirus, Distemper, Leptospirosis, and Kennel Cough.
- Cats: Feline Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, and Feline Leukemia Virus.
- Rabbits & Ferrets: Vaccination for Myxomatosis and Viral Hemorrhagic Disease.
Annual booster shots are crucial, especially if your pet interacts with other animals or stays in pet boarding facilities.
Seasonal Considerations in Mayo
🌧️ Autumn & Winter: Cold, damp conditions can increase the risk of arthritis and respiratory infections in older pets.
🌿 Spring & Summer: Longer days mean more outdoor time—be mindful of grass seeds, heat exhaustion, and tick infestations.
Final Thoughts
Caring for pets in Mayo and the West of Ireland requires year-round attention to parasite control, vaccinations, and seasonal changes. At Skeldale Veterinary Clinic, we provide expert advice, vaccinations, and routine check-ups to keep your pet healthy in every season.
📍 Need personalized pet care? Book an appointment at our Ballinrobe or Belmullet clinics today!
