Parasite Prevention & Control
There was a time when parasites like fleas, ticks, and roundworms were considered mostly a nuisance. Now, however, we know that parasites can cause serious illness and even death in pets. For example, ticks can transmit infections like Lyme disease, and fleas can transmit tapeworms and Bartonella - the bacteria that causes "cat-scratch fever" in humans.
Another type of parasite, called a heartworm, is transmitted by mosquitoes. Heartworms live in your pet's lungs and heart, causing damage to these organs, and sometimes even death. Intestinal parasites, like roundworms and hookworms, also threaten pets and are even transmissible to humans.
Fortunately, we can recommend tests to tell if your pet has heartworms and intestinal parasites. We can also examine your pet for evidence of fleas, ticks, or other parasites.
Book your dog or cat's appointment today!
Why is parasite prevention important?
Parasites are not just a nuisance. They can carry serious diseases that affect your pet's overall health and longevity and when left untreated may of these parasites are fatal.
Parasite prevention is vital for keeping your pet healthy and free from infections that can cause serious health issues. Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms are common parasites that can affect pets, leading to conditions ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening diseases.
Fleas, for example, can cause itching, hair loss, and allergies, while ticks can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Heartworms, transmitted by mosquitoes, can damage your pet's heart and lungs, often leading to fatal consequences if untreated. Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms or hookworms, can cause digestive issues, weight loss, and anemia, especially in puppies and kittens.
Parasite prevention not only protects your pet but also reduces the risk of transmission to humans, particularly in the case of ticks and some intestinal parasites, which can affect people, especially children. Regular use of flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, along with regular deworming, helps safeguard your pet’s health and prevents infestations from becoming severe.
Preventive care is far more effective and less expensive than treating parasitic infections once they occur. By staying on top of parasite prevention, pet owners can ensure their animals lead happy, healthy lives, free from the discomfort and dangers parasites bring.
Let us help you protect your pet. We carry a variety of products for heartworm, flea and parasite prevention including Bravecto, Bravecto Plus, Simparica Trio, and the 6 and 12 month heartworm prevention injectables ProHeart 6 and ProHeart 12.
