Parasite Control & Prevention

Catching a parasite can happen to any pet. The best way to protect your pet from encountering a parasite is prevention. However, if it’s too late, our veterinarians are equipped to treat them. There are a variety of parasites in the world, including heartworms, fleas and ticks. Their infestation can cause a varying degree of long-term medical conditions if left untreated. What’s even more concerning is if your pet is infected, it can affect the rest of your family. It’s important to get a handle on it as soon as possible or to keep up with the preventative measures our veterinarian’s supply. To get started, book an appointment with us at 780-444-1324.

What does a parasite infection look like?

Your pet’s reaction can vary depending on the parasite they have. From incessant scratching to white strings in their poop. It helps to know the kinds of parasites out there. Fleas are external parasites that cause a skin allergy, which is a common skin disease for dogs and cats. Ticks latch on to the skin and burrow in to feed on blood. Both can cause your pet to itch and gnaw at their skin. Heartworm, roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm are other parasites that can enter your pet’s bloodstream and create serious health problems. Heartworm parasites are passed on to dogs through mosquitoes. Hookworm and roundworm larvae may end up on your pet’s body/other surfaces, which, through licking, enters its abdominal system. The best form of treatment is early and regular prevention. Symptoms of a worm parasite are an occasional cough, fatigue, weight loss and difficulty breathing.

How are pets treated to remove and prevent parasites?

A monthly medication will help your pet avoid these parasites. If your dog or cat does contract a worm, our veterinarians will test their blood to determine which kind they are suffering from and what level the worm infestation has reached. A correct diagnosis is needed because the treatment for one worm is not the same as for another.

Is there anything else I can do to protect my pet from a parasite?

Everyday things you can do to keep your family safe, include regularly inspecting your pet’s feces and cleaning up after your dog at the park. Every pet parent has to do their part. Since parasites can be transported through stools, leaving no traces cuts down on a potential infestation in your neighbourhood. You also need to visually inspect your dog’s skin for signs of fleas during daily grooming. Routinely check for ticks after returning from an area known to have them, like wooded camping sites.