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Parasite Prevention FAQs

Parasites can cause several problems in pets. Some parasites are harmless or annoying, while others can be life-threatening to your pet. At TLC for Pets Veterinary Hospital, we treat many cats and dogs that are affected by parasites. If you live in or around Reisterstown or Owings Mills and are looking for help preventing these pests from affecting your pet, contact one of our veterinarians today. Let’s take a look at some of the questions that our vets run into regarding parasite prevention.

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What is a Parasite?

Pet parasites are tiny living organisms that feed on animals. Their eggs, larvae, and cysts can be transmitted through contact with an infected animal or via contaminated surfaces in the environment.

What are the Most Common Kinds of Pet Parasites?

Pet parasites include fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, flatworms, roundworms, hookworms, heartworms, lungworms, ear mites, and skin lice.

What is a Heartworm?

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. They affect the cardiovascular system, causing severe damage to dogs' hearts and lungs as they grow inside. If left untreated, these worms will eventually kill your dog. Our veterinarians can run blood tests to check for these pests.

What Do Worms Do to My Pet?

What the worm does depends on what part of the body the worm is discovered. Some worms cause the pet to stop absorbing nutrients from food, and others cause blood clotting, which can be fatal. Most worms, if left untreated, will lead to significant illness or eventually death. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to humans, so early treatment for your pets is especially important.

What is the Best Way to Prevent Pet Parasites?

The best way to prevent pet parasites is to have your pet on a parasite prevention plan from your veterinarian’s office. Many of the worms that affect pets live in the soil, so there is always a chance for your pet to come into contact with them. Keeping outside toys and pet areas clean will help prevent contamination with worm eggs and larvae.

Mosquitoes breed in moist areas and near still water. It is helpful to dump out any containers of water near your home. Fleas flourish in warm, humid weather. Using flea control products as recommended by your vet can be helpful when dealing with these pests. Regularly brush your pet and look for fleas and ticks. Lastly, it is wise to consult with your veterinarian about parasite treatment.

Contact Our Veterinarians in Reisterstown, MD

Parasites are preventable in most cases. It doesn't take much to actively prevent the various bugs, worms, and other disease-causing pests from affecting your pet. If you live in Reisterstown, Owings Mills, or the surrounding areas, contact our veterinarians at TLC for Pets for help preventing these pests. Call our team today at (410) 833-1717 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.