We have been blessed with an unseasonably warm winter this year.
However, because of the warmer winter, we are seeing more of those pesky parasites that affect our pets this spring. These include heartworm disease, fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites.
- Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal if untreated. However, it is easily prevented with a monthly preventative, given year round. The American Heartworm Society recommends annual testing for heartworm disease, which is a simple blood test that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office. Many of the heartworm preventative medications also prevent intestinal parasites such as hookworms and roundworms.
- Fleas are not only a nuisance due to their bites; they can carry infectious diseases such as Cat Scratch Fever, Tapeworms and The Plague. Flea infestations can be difficult and costly to treat in your home. Your veterinarian can help you choose which product is right for your pet from a selection of monthly oral or topical medications. Many of the companies offer a guarantee when you purchase these products from your vet, which includes home treatment by a pest control company if needed. However, if you get these products online or at other stores, that guarantee is void.
- Ticks have been very active this spring and carry infectious diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tick Paralysis and Anaplasmosis. Your family veterinarian is the best resource to help you determine proper tick prevention and/or Lyme disease prevention for your pet. The CDC has a list of tick borne diseases here.
- Intestinal parasites can cause weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea, and can spread to people. Checking a fecal sample at least once annually at your veterinarian’s office is the best way to protect your pet and family from gastrointestinal worms and parasites.
