When you have a pet that you love, it is important to understand the impact of parasites on your pet's life. Parasites feed on or inside animals. The most common parasites that pets experience include fleas and ticks, but there are many other types of parasites. Dr. Sheila RiceWatkins and our team at Crow Hill Veterinary Hospital help pets and pet owners in and around Bailey deal with parasites. Let’s take a close look at parasite control and how it can help keep your furry friends happy and healthy for years to come.
Types of Parasites
In addition to fleas and ticks, your pet may also be host to:
- Mites
- Heartworms
- Intestinal parasites
- Lice
Most parasites cause minor irritation, but some can lead to fatal consequences. Regular veterinary exams can help prevent the spread of parasites and the diseases they cause.
Ticks
Ticks are among the most common parasites. Ticks cause infections and irritation, but they can also cause serious diseases in pets. For some dogs, exposure to ticks can be deadly. Ticks can also lead to serious diseases for humans, and they can be found in the same spots that your pet uses to go potty.
Mosquitoes
One of the biggest problems with mosquitoes isn’t the irritation that their bites cause, but rather the fact that they can give pets heartworm and other diseases. Heartworm is one of the most dangerous conditions for dogs, as it causes serious blood restrictions to the organs. When the disease is left untreated, it can be fatal.
Parasite Prevention
Parasite control with the help of a veterinarian is one of the best ways to protect your pet. A good place to start for protection is good hygiene, even when handling your pet's food. You should also make sure you clean up your pet’s feces right away to prevent the spread of parasites through the feces.
Veterinary exams are also important. Our veterinarians at Crow Hill Veterinary Hospital will perform a comprehensive test on your cat or dog to make sure it is healthy and not infested with parasites. Prevention is always easier than cure, so we can provide some recommendations for products to help keep your pets safe from these pests.
Book a Parasite Control Appointment in Bailey, CO
Our team at Crow Hill Veterinary Hospital in Bailey will help you protect your pet. Dr. RiceWatkins and Dr. Zale will answer any questions that you may have about parasites and provide suggestions for products to keep your cat or dog safe. Call our team today at (303) 838-4677 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
