Dogs and cats’ inherent curiosity frequently leads them to walk around the backyard, sniffing everything, licking anything interesting, and playing with their neighbors’ pets. Instinctual desires might force pets to unintentionally expose themselves to parasites and other ailments. Several internal and external parasites can infect dogs and cats, and some can transfer to people. In terms of all-year-round, monthly parasite prevention, your family’s health is equally as important as your pet’s health.
Pet Parasite Prevention
Parasites are not only unpleasant but also harmful. They’re packed with microorganisms that can put your pets in danger of getting sick. Follow these seven simple actions to ensure that your dog is parasite-free.
1. Consult your veterinarian
Speak with your veterinarian to learn about the most common parasites in your area. If you reside in a location where parasites are more frequent than you think, you must ensure that you take safeguards all year. They can advise you on the most effective preventative methods, warning indications to look for, and how to prevent parasites from spreading to your pet.
2. Check for signs of disease
Some parasite-infected pets show no signs of sickness at all. This is why it is critical to conduct frequent tests and take preventative measures. However, it is also vital to recognize the signs as soon as they arise. The most common parasitic symptoms in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the stool. Coughing and difficulty breathing are two indications of heartworm illness. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Visit Temple City Animal Hospital to find out more about the signs of parasites on your pet.
3. Use preventive medication
Some intestinal parasites may be treatable with primary treatment, which is wonderful news. Many doctors encourage people to take these drugs all year. Maintain the routine even when you are away. Speak with your veterinarian if you’ve missed a few doses of your prescription. To learn more about parasite prevention, check this cat & dog vaccinations.
4. Maintain a feces-free yard
Keep your pet’s environment clean to reduce the chances of parasite infestation. Because most intestinal parasites are transmitted through direct touch with excrement, cleaning up after your pet is critical. Because certain parasites live for months or even weeks, the feces-contaminated region could provide a possibility for exposure for months or even weeks.
5. Conduct a routine fecal examination
It is critical to bring a new stool sample to your veterinarian’s office at least annually (or bi-annually, depending on your pet’s breed and condition). Your veterinarian will examine the stool sample for parasites. Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to intestinal parasites.
The initial visit to the vet is essential to collect a sample of your pet’s feces. This ensures that your pet has a long and healthy life. If you purchased your puppy from an animal breeder, the breeder must also provide proof of the puppy’s deworming technique and dose. Make sure your vet knows this critical information. In case of emergency, see here.
6. Don’t let them drink standing water
In locations with stagnant water, the parasite Giardia thrives, causing painful diarrhea. Give your pet a clean, fresh water bowl, so he doesn’t drink from somewhere else. Allow them to drink from puddles or other standing water.