Understand the different types of parasites.
Before you can effectively protect your pets from parasites, it’s vital to understand the different types of parasites that can affect them. A parasite is an organism that lives on or in a host organism and gets its food from or at the expense of its host. There are internal parasites and external parasites.
External Parasites
- Fleas
- Ringworm
- Ticks
- Lice
- Mites
Internal Parasites
- Hookworms
- Roundworms
- Tapeworms
- Whipworms
- Heartworm
- Toxoplasmosis
- Coccidia, Giardia, and Spirochetes (non-worm parasites)
Each parasite has unique characteristics and requires different prevention and treatment methods. All the above parasites exist in Elko County, so prevention is critical.
5 Tips to Prevent Parasites
1. Keep your pet’s living area clean and tidy.
One of the most important steps in preventing parasites in your pets is to keep their living area clean and tidy. This step includes:
- Regularly cleaning their bedding, toys, and any other items they come into contact with. Vacuuming carpets and furniture can also help remove fleas or ticks hiding in the environment.
- When your dog goes to the bathroom, pick up and throw away the poo immediately. This step decreases the risk of worm eggs getting into your yard.
- Avoid areas with feces from dogs, cats, and other domestic animals such as rabbits, pigs, chickens, and wild animals.
- Choose parks, trails, and beaches that are clean and well-managed. (This also goes for children’s sandboxes and playgrounds — look for clean facilities to decrease risks.)
2. Regularly groom your pet and check for signs of parasites.
In addition to using preventative medication, grooming your pet and regularly checking for signs of parasites is essential. Check for fleas, ticks, and other pests in your pet’s fur, and examine their skin for any signs of irritation or bites. You should also check your pet’s ears and eyes for signs of infection or infestation. If you notice any indications of parasites, it’s important to act immediately to prevent the infestation from spreading and causing harm to your pet’s health.
3. Realize that even indoor pets can get parasites.
Some pet parents with indoor-only pets may think their pets cannot get parasites if they never go outside. However, tiny home invaders that your pet can come into contact with, such as a mosquito, house fly, cockroaches, or mouse, carry parasites into your home. You can bet your pet will come into contact with these parasites from your carpets, ingest them, or be bitten by a mosquito. So, even with indoor pets, parasite prevention is essential.
4. Prevent parasites with flea and tick medication.
One of the most effective ways to protect your pets from parasites is to use preventative measures such as flea and tick medication. You can apply these medications topically or orally, which work by killing or repelling parasites before they can attach to your pet. It’s essential to choose a medication appropriate for your pet’s age, weight, and species and follow the instructions carefully. Regular use of flea and tick medication and heartworm medication can help keep your pets parasite-free and reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by these pests. You can also learn more from the AVMA about external parasites and internal parasites.
5. Please consult with our veterinarian for treatment options.
If you suspect that your pet has a parasite infestation, it’s important to consult with Dr. Moriarty for treatment options. She can recommend the best treatment based on your pet’s needs and health history. She may prescribe or recommend a specific preventative medicine to treat and protect your pet from future infestations. With the proper care and attention, you can help protect your furry friend from the harmful effects of parasites.
Final Words on How to Prevent Parasites
Our environment is full of parasites that can infect our pets anytime. But parasites are preventable or manageable if you follow our guide above. And if your pet gets parasites, we can treat your pet – the sooner, the better before an infestation gets out of control. Contact us today for treatment or preventative medication.
Your Friendly Team
Aspen Vet Clinic