Corpus Christi Animal Care Services – Vector, has recorded an increase in mosquitos due to the heavy rain. The hatching of mosquito larvae is more active during times of heavy rain. While the mosquito count has increased, there are no cases signs of West Nile virus at this time.

Vector is unable to spray during actual rain and must wait for clear skies. Weather permitting; Vector will be spraying the Botanical area, the Lakes area, and the King’s crossing area tonight starting at 8:00pm. Vector technicians are also looking to the upcoming cool front forecasted for Friday to move many of these mosquitos out of the area.

Animal Care Services would like to remind pet owners that mosquitos can also cause heartworms in pets. Heartworms are transmitted from animal to animal by mosquitoes that are infected with a specific parasite (Dirofilaria immitis.)  According to the SPCA, heartworms are easy to prevent with an inexpensive, chewable pill available with a vet’s prescription.  Please contact your local veterinarian to have your dog tested for heartworms and placed on heartworm preventative.

“As with all outdoor activity, Animal & Vector Services recommends that people take the proper precautions by wearing insect repellant when outdoors. We also recommend heartworm prevention for indoor and outdoor pets. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” ~Heather Hedrick, Animal Care Services hProgram Manager