Parasite Control & Prevention

A great way to keep your pet healthy is to protect them from parasites. Fleas, ticks and other parasites bring more than discomfort to your pets. They can cause severe fatal problems for your family. Our veterinary team has created a prevention program to help prevent this, and we provide treatments for parasitic infection.

What parasites may affect my pet?

Parasites are classified into two groups: internal and external. Internal parasites infect the digestive system and are detected through examining your pet’s stool. Internal parasites include hookworm, roundworm, coccidia and heartworm. External parasites are diagnosed with physical examinations and tests as they affect the outer body. Examples of external parasites are fleas, ticks, mange mites, ear mites and ringworm.

What are signs of a parasitic infection?

It is important to have regular checkups as some cases do not show any signs of an infection. Here are some signs you should look out for:

• Lethargy
• Swollen belly
• Itching
• Redness of the skin

These signs need to be properly examined and treated. To schedule a consultation for your pet, reach out to us at 519-641-8383.

Are parasites contagious?

Yes! Some parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can be passed between species. When you protect your pet from being infected, you protect everyone else inside your home. Parasites such as ticks, fleas and some worms can be transmitted between humans and pets. Extra precautions should be taken when handling pet waste and practicing good hand-washing hygiene to eliminate the risk of infection.

How can I protect my pet from parasites?

The best form of protection you can give your pet is to have them on prevention medication. A year-round prevention plan is the most effective as parasites may attack at any time during the year. Some parasites are more prevalent during the warmer months, but they can survive the colder months by living inside your home.