Pets are integral members of our families, and safeguarding them against parasite infestations is crucial for their health. Both external parasites (ectoparasites) like fleas and ticks, and internal parasites (endoparasites) can pose risks. Ectoparasites are not just bothersome for pets but can also spread diseases to both humans and animals, such as Bartonella (causing cat scratch disease through fleas) and diseases like Lyme, Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichia, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Fleas can lead to severe skin conditions in pets, including flea allergy dermatitis, characterized by itchy, inflamed skin.
Common endoparasites in pets include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. These are often contracted through the ingestion of microscopic eggs present in fecally contaminated environments or through intermediate hosts like rodents (for certain tapeworm and roundworm species) or fleas (for Dipyllidium tapeworm species). These parasites can also pose a health risk to humans and are known as zoonotic, meaning they can transfer from animals to people. For instance, accidental ingestion of roundworm eggs can lead to organ damage or even blindness in humans, while hookworm larvae can infect people through skin contact, causing cutaneous larval migrans.
Heartworm, a non-zoonotic endoparasite, is transmitted to pets via infected mosquitoes. The larvae migrate to the heart and develop into adults, leading to heart failure and potentially fatal outcomes if left untreated. Early stages of heartworm disease might show no symptoms, but as it progresses, signs like coughing and exercise intolerance in dogs, and vomiting/coughing in cats can appear. Treating heartworm disease can be risky and expensive.
To protect your family and pets, maintaining a year-round parasite prevention program is essential. Effective preventives can significantly reduce the risk of heartworm disease, intestinal parasites, and tick-borne illnesses. Additionally, practicing good hygiene (like regular hand washing), avoiding consumption of unwashed raw vegetables or undercooked meats, and promptly cleaning pet feces can help prevent zoonotic diseases. For more information about pets and parasites, visit petsandparasites.org, and consult with one of our friendly staff!
