As we move into the milder and wetter months of the year, parasite risks can become more of a concern for pet owners. Fleas, ticks and lungworm are among the most common parasites seen in clinic at this time of year, and understanding the risks can help owners take the right steps to protect their […]
As we move into the milder and wetter months of the year, parasite risks can become more of a concern for pet owners. Fleas, ticks and lungworm are among the most common parasites seen in clinic at this time of year, and understanding the risks can help owners take the right steps to protect their pets.
The most common parasites seen in clinic at this time of year include fleas and ticks, which are ectoparasites, and lungworm, which is an endoparasite.
Coming into the milder and wetter months of the year, the risk of lungworm is higher. Lungworm is most commonly associated with dogs and cats that scavenge, spend time in muddy areas, or regularly walk in wet grassland and farmland.
Common signs of lungworm in dogs and cats include:
If you have concerns about any of these signs, speak to your veterinary team.
Regular tick checks should be part of your routine after walks. When checking pets for ticks, the most common places they attach are:
Part the fur and carefully examine all of these areas.
If you find a tick, it is important to be cautious when attempting to remove it. The best option is to get in touch with your vet for assistance. If a tick is not removed correctly, it can result in irritation to the pet, with the area becoming inflamed and potentially infected, as well as creating the possibility of more serious disease.
One of the biggest misconceptions owners have is that if their pet does not interact with or walk in long grassed areas, they are unaffected by parasites.
While parasites are more commonly transmitted in woody and grassland areas, it is not uncommon for pets to be exposed to both endoparasites and ectoparasites in other environments. For this reason, parasite prevention should not be overlooked simply because a pet does not regularly visit these areas.
The best way to protect against parasites is to regularly treat your pets. There are a range of treatment options available in clinic, including:
Your vet can recommend the most appropriate option based on your pet’s individual needs, lifestyle and risk factors.
Highfield offers a range of parasite prevention options, including oral, topical and injectable treatments. Our Pet Health Plans include offers on parasite treatments to help keep your pets protected.
If you have any questions or concerns about parasite prevention, get in touch with your local Highfield branch. Our vets and nurses are happy to discuss any concerns and help you choose the most suitable option for your pet.
Author: Aoibh Harman, Registered Veterinary Nurse, Naas
