Protection for your pets is a key part of being a good pet owner. Here we have a few preventative tips for parasite protection that will keep your pet safe all year round.
Prevention is always the best protection for your pets where parasites are concerned. Part of being a good pet parent is being able to identify when your pet has a parasite problem. However, we can assist you in choosing the best preventative care for your pet by following these easy steps:
- If you notice your dog or cat scratching excessively, this could be a sign that they have fleas. You can look for small dirt-like specks which is actually blood, as the fleas feast on your pets’ blood. You will notice the scratching more around the neck, armpit, and tail end of your pet as that is where the fleas like to party the most.
- If worms infect your pet, you may notice they are hungrier than normal. With dogs you may see them scooting their bottoms along the ground while with cats, if you look at their bottom, you may even see small white specks that look like cucumber seeds – these are tapeworm segments. Tapeworms are very long and as they move through your pets intestines, they break off and come out like this. Roundworms look like spaghetti and can be very irritating to your pet.
- If your cat is a regular hunter, they are likely to come into contact with mice and birds, and can become infected with lungworm. Lungworm is easily treated – and we will ask you some specific questions about your pets’ night-time habits to be sure we help you choose the right product.
- It is vital to make sure your personal hand hygiene is vigilant, and make sure if you have children that they wash their hands well after playing with the dog.
- Regular worming and flea control is recommended, there are some excellent products out there now that can work for a longer period.
Preventative tips
- Follow a year round parasite control program.
- Discuss options with your vet for the best products to prevent parasites.
- Regular check-ups at your local clinic.
- See your vet or veterinary nurse as soon as you spot any symptoms of infestation.