In many cases pets do not show outward signs until advanced stages of the disease.

Later symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing, weight loss, tiring easily and listlessness. The parasite is transmitted through mosquito bites and usually the pet shows no signs for months. One of the most common and effective prevention methods is a monthly oral medication. The best treatment for heartworms is prevention. Make an appointment with us immediately to limit the impact of the tick. It’s much safer to have one of our trained professionals remove the tick for you. This does not work and could harm your pet. If you see a tick on your pet, do not try and burn it off with a match. Additionally, flea dirt, the byproduct of fleas that looks like coffee grounds or pepper, can usually be seen by looking at your pet’s abdomen or by combing your pet’s coat with a fine-tooth comb. If your pet is showing signs of fleas such as continuous scratching, gnawing or licking, schedule an appointment immediately. When should I seek treatment for parasites? Unrecognized and untreated heartworm infections can be fatal. The adult heartworm produces offspring called microfilariae, which circulate in the pet’s blood. Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart and its surrounding blood vessels. Heartworms are transmitted when an infected mosquito bites your pet. Call us immediately to limit the impact of the tick's attachment. Note: If you see a tick and cannot remove it, we will gladly help you. If left untreated, these diseases, such as lyme, can lead to more severe health problems or even be fatal. Some tick bites only cause mild irritation or swelling at the site, but other tick bites can infect your pet with serious illnesses. Ticks are members of the spider family and live in cracks and crevices in the home or outside in vegetation such as grassy meadows, woods, brush, and weeds. Flea infestations can lead to anemia and fleas are also capable of transmitting serious diseases. If ingested while your pet is grooming themselves, fleas can transmit an intestinal parasite called tapeworm.

Some animals are allergic to the saliva of fleas, which can cause inflammation and more discomfort. Why are parasites dangerous?įleas are small, wingless, brown, fast moving insects you can see in your pet’s fur. Your pet should be free from parasites, both internal and external. The most frequent external parasites include fleas and ticks. Parasites can diminish quality of life and even cause life-threatening health issues.Ĭommon internal parasites include heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. The idea of your pet being infested with parasites is a disturbing thought, but it’s also a medical issue that can have serious consequences.

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