Get rid of those pesky critters.
Pets are easy targets for parasites and small insects. Common parasites like fleas, ticks and heartworm-carrying mosquitoes feed on pets, potentially infecting them with many dangerous diseases at the same time. Discover how these tiny pests can cause big problems, and learn how the veterinarians at Fanwood Animal Hospital can help you keep them away from your pets.
Fleas
These bloodsucking insects feed on mammals and lay eggs in their fur. Fleas can transmit tapeworms and murine typhus and can cause dermatitis and anemia. One flea can reproduce nearly 50 times a day, so a flea infestation is a substantial threat to your pet’s well-being. Flea infestations often spread throughout the home quickly, so they are tough to eradicate.
Ticks
Ticks lurk in shrubs and tall grass, and they feed on mammals’ blood. Although they are nearly microscopic, ticks are some of the most potent dangers to your pet’s health. A single tick bite can transmit a host of potentially fatal diseases, including Lyme disease, typhus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis.
Although it’s rare, it’s possible for ticks to transfer from animals to humans, so ticks are threats to your whole family. Take special care to inspect your pet, and yourself, after any woodland activities.
Heartworm
Heartworm-carrying mosquitoes represent a lethal danger to your pet. When an infected mosquito bites your pet, it transmits heartworm larva. The larva then slowly develops and makes its way to the heart. Once in the heart, it multiplies within your pet’s pulmonary artery, leading to constricted blood flow, heart disease and, in advanced stages, major organ failure.
Parasite Prevention at Fanwood Animal Hospital
Regularly administering parasite prevention medication is the best way to keep your pet free of nasty parasites. Talk with your Fanwood Animal Hospital veterinarian to determine the best parasite control products for your pet.
Fanwood Animal Hospital’s parasite prevention plans include:
- Pet examination and testing
- Parasite control consultation with a Fanwood Animal Hospital veterinarian
- Access to industry-best medicine and equipment
Schedule an appointment at Fanwood Animal Hospital as soon as you can if you suspect that your cat or dog is already infected with parasites.