Mosquitoes can be annoying pests for people and annoying pests for dogs. Some dogs aren’t bothered by mosquitoes while other dogs seem to attract mosquitoes. It’s important to keep your dog on a monthly heartworm prevention medication to protect against heartworms that can be transmitted via mosquito bites. Mosquito bites in general can also be harmful for your dog. Besides heartworms, mosquitoes can transmit parasitic diseases such as the West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis and systemic lupus erythematosus to people and animals. Mosquito bites can also cause allergic reactions. For instance, if you notice your dog has a mosquito bite and is scratching it, swelling occurs, and there is eventual altered breathing or vision then your dog may be allergic. Ways to prevent mosquito bites and possible disease include keeping your yard free of standing water. Contact your veterinarians Murrieta, CA to learn more.