With the storms, floods and heavy and above average rainfall seen around Australia this summer, mosquitos and therefore, mosquito-borne diseases, are on the rise...
A bite from a mosquito can be more than just an painful itch to your dog. Mosquito bites can also cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, AND transmit diseases. Although your pet's coat does offer a bit of protection, they can still to bite through fur.
Japanese encephalitis is making news at the moment as the newest mosquito-borne illness affecting humans and horses (and pigs). It is important to remember not to panic - only about 1% of people who contracted the virus showed any symptoms.
Horse imports from Australia to New Zealand are facing tougher restrictions, as Australia sees rising cases of a potentially deadly virus spread by mosquitoes. While the virus can infect horses (which New Zealand does import), they’re referred to as “dead end hosts” meaning they don’t pass the virus onto mosquitos, humans, or other horses (1).
Ross River Fever is a viral disease that can effect horses as well as humans. It is an arbovirus, transmitted via biting arthropods which included mosquitos, biting midges, sandflies and ticks but it is rare for it to be transmitted from horse to human. It can also be called Ross River virus or epidemic polyarthritis. It isn't fatal but some symptoms can continue to effect the horse for months.
What can you do?
- Clear away any low-lying water from around your home
- Limit your exposure to mosquitoes by avoiding mosquito habitats such as stagnant water (easier said than done in some places right now!)
- Cover up any exposed skin
- Use insect repellants (natural of course!)
- Plant herbs and insect repelling plants
- Diffuse essential oils in your home
Mosquito-repelling plants that are safe for pets:
- Eucalyptus
- Basil
- Catnip
- Lemon balm
- Rosemary
McDowells Products
Midge-A-Way
The Midge-away formula was developed in response to those seeking a 100% natural NON-TOXIC solution to dealing with flying insects and annoying midges. The product acts by using traditional anti parasitic herbs in a base of raw cider vinegar and Methylated spirits , blended with 1:1 extracts and essential oils. The product is exceedingly safe to use, non toxic and when used correctly helps to discourage insects landing on your dogs coat . The product can also be used as an environment spray.
Infect-A-Clear for horses
The herbs in this mix have been traditionally used to stimulate the horse’s own natural elimination which may help to clear these naturally occurring metabolites thereby improving the immune system's response.
Ross River Fever Program
Our Ross River Program consists of four products to be used together to enhance the body's natural healing mechanisms. The herbs in the formulas are traditionally used stimulate the expulsion of infection and viral matter. The program is designed to build gut health, reduce pain and inflammation and with stimulating elimination via normal metabolic process and building a stronger immune system.
References
(1) Oz mosquito virus prompts changes to NZ horse imports By Andrew Macfarlane, 1News Australia Correspondent
(2)