Our hospital offers education on a number of Parasite Control Programs.
The most common parasites pets deal with are fleas and ticks. Fleas and ticks are capable of transmitting infection and disease to pets through a bite. Many pets also suffer from severe allergic reaction to the bites of fleas and ticks. Our staff and veterinarians will help you choose the correct product based on your pets risk factors and health status. Based on the needs of your pet and family, there are topical (such as SImpleGuard3 or ComboGuard), oral (such as AcuGuard or Bravecto), and collar versions of flea and tick preventatives which can be discussed at the time of your visit. We recommend year-round use of these products, as even in the dead of winter, we will find these pests on cats and dogs.
Intestinal parasites also pose a health risk to both pets and people. As a result, all dogs and cats should have at least one fecal examination per year to test for intestinal parasites (e.g., roundworms, hookworms, Giardia). Although less common with indoor-only pets, they are still at risk of contracting parasites--they can be carried into the household on your shoes or even on potting soil. There are specific treatments available for pets with GI (gastrointestinal) parasites, depending on which parasite your pet is diagnosed with.
Heartworms are another important parasite in both cats and dogs, especially in warm and humid climates where mosquitoes are prevalent. Recent studies of cats have shown that the incidence of heartworms that is far greater than previously thought--nearly the rate of infection is about 5-20% that of dogs. In our county, 1 out of every 178 dogs tested for this parasite are found to be positive. Heartworms live in the cat or dog's bloodstream and cause major damage to the heart and lungs and often result in death. Heartworms are transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes. Heartworm preventatives are very safe and effective, if used as directed. Many of these products also protect your dog against certain intestinal parasites as well. Some examples of heartworm preventatives include Paradyne, Interceptor Plus, or ComboGuard.
We have several convenient ways to make sure that your pet gets is year-round parasite prevention, including purchase of a whole year at once (which often includes rebates for additional savings), or our Never Forget program, offered through our Home Delivery service. Your pet's products and treatments will be delivered to you at the same time each month - the perfect reminder for you to safely keep your pets on their treatment schedules. Ask us about the Never Forget program at your pet's annual examination.