[Freeda]

Hi, I have never had pets since moving to The Villages, but I have a guest coming with a very small dog. I am concerned about it being stung by fire ants - and also am concerned about other risks. I'm trying to get a rational take on how big a risk/problem there is to be worried about.

I see people walking dogs a lot on the sidewalks, at postal stations, at the squares, etc. - aren't fire ants potentially in those places, and so are dogs at risk for being stung while walking on the sidewalks, at postal stations, the squares, etc.? How does one avoid this from happening?

Do I need to have my yard treated with some particular product to prevent fire ants from being in my yard and stinging the dog? If so, which product(s) work best?

Are there other insects or 'critters' (I mean besides the obvious gators), ie, in the grass, etc. that I need to be concerned about in terms of the dog's safety? Snakes, etc?

Where are the best places to walk a dog to avoid these risks, or at least minimize them?

What do you do for the dog if it does get stung by fire ants? Does this require a vet visit?

Thanks, I really appreciate your advice!