The idea of your pet being infested with parasites is disturbing, but it is a medical issue that can have serious consequences for your pet as well as the potential to infect you and your human family, if not properly treated or prevented.
There are many over the counter options available for flea and tick as well as prescriptions. Unfortunately, not all over the counter preventatives are approved. Due to these unapproved products that are easily accessible, the Environmental Protection Agency issued a warning in 2010 about possible toxic reactions. This was due to some over the counter products causing death in dogs. We do not want anyone to have to experience that when they are trying to keep their pet healthy.
Here is a link to an article about the EPA warning:
Here are some links to the main parasites we see in our area:
External parasites:
- Flea and tick: Flea Control for Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
Internal Parasites:
- Heartworm: For Pet Owners – American Heartworm Society
- Roundworms: Dogs: Roundworms in Dogs and Puppies – Veterinary Partner – VIN
Cats: Roundworms In Cats And Kittens – Veterinary Partner – VIN
- Tapeworms: Dogs and Cats: Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) in Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
- Hookwoms: Hookworms in Cats and Dogs – Veterinary Partner – VIN
Here is a link to Companion Animal Parasite Council. They provide information about the prevalence of each parasite by location.: