Our hospital offers guidance on a number of Parasite Control Programs. The most common parasites our pets see in Texas are heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms and Giardia.
Heartworms are transmitted through mosquitos and can cause irreparable damage to a pet's heart and lungs. While treatment exists for dogs, there is no treatment available for cats and the damage heartworms create cannot be cured.
Fleas and ticks are capable of transmitting infection and disease to pets through a bite and can cause pets to suffer from skin and allergy issues if they have a severe allergic reaction to the bites.
Internal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, Giardia and more are also capable of causing severe illness in pets. Some intestinal parasites are considered zoonotic, meaning both people and pets can get them. Because of this risk, all dogs and cats should have at least one fecal examination per year to test for intestinal parasites.
It is imperative that owners use one of the many commercially available products that protect pets from these parasites in order to maintain their pet's health. Our staff and veterinarians can help you choose the correct product based on your pet’s risk factors and health status.
