Parasite Prevention and Control

Most people think of fleas and ticks when they think of parasites. Think again! Not only are there five additional common parasites but dogs and cats can share them easily and pass them to you and your family. These parasites include hookworms, roundworms, giardia, and coccidia. Most parasites can be found in sandboxes, dirt, grass – a natural playground for kids. Parasites are released through an animal’s feces and eggs can live in an environment for months. Your pet might be infected if they are showing signs of acute or chronic diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and weight loss. There are often no symptoms in the early stages. The best way to make sure is to get an intestinal parasite exam with our doctor. This test should be completed one to two times a year.

​​​​​​​Heartworms are another type of parasite transmitted to dogs and cats via mosquitos. Heartworms live in your pet’s lungs and heart, causing damage to these organs and sometimes even death. Many of these parasites can be controlled and treated by using a monthly heartworm preventive such as Sentinel Spectrum.

Let us help you protect your pet, call us today to scheduled your consultation and parasite exam.