Fleas, ticks, worms, and mosquitoes are among the primary parasites and carriers of disease that affect our pets. Many preventive steps that address one type of parasite can prevent others, so taking the necessary precautions will reduce the likelihood of parasites generally, enhance your pet's health, and reduce your veterinary bills. If you live in or near Westminster or Huntington Harbour, CA, and need a vet near you, contact us at Amigo Animal Hospital for your pets’ veterinary care.

Common Parasitic Threats to Pets

Fleas, ticks, worms, and mosquitoes are the most common parasites that affect pets. Ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and cytauxzoonosis, a deadly disease for cats. Fleas cause allergic reactions, carry tapeworms, and infest your home, while mosquitoes carry heartworm larvae. Pets are also exposed to worms by sniffing, ingesting, or grooming themselves after encountering infested feces or animal remains.

Parasite Prevention

Many medications are available today to prevent or control parasites' harmful effects. Whether taken orally, injected, or applied topically, each can be critical in maintaining your pet's health.

Besides medicines, other steps to prevent or reduce the likelihood of your pet becoming infected by parasites include:

•             Shampooing and grooming your pet regularly

•             Using a flea comb regularly

•             Cleaning up and properly disposing of pet feces consistently

•             Monitoring your pet when outside the home and training your dog to not consume feces

In addition, maintaining a clean home by vacuuming regularly and maintaining a well-trimmed yard helps eliminate habitats for fleas and ticks.

Even if you follow these practices at home, your pet may be exposed to parasites away at the park, on walks, or elsewhere, away from home, so it is best to ensure your pet receives the preventive medicine it needs.

Parasite Treatments

If your pet suffers from parasites, it is critical that it obtains treatment as soon as possible, since parasites can significantly affect its overall health and even threaten its life. Many parasitic infestations are addressed with medicine, though some may require surgery or other procedures.

Contact Amigo Animal Hospital

If you live in or near Westminster or Huntington Harbour, CA, bring your pet to the Amigo Animal Hospital, where our veterinarian and team will provide full pet care. Call us at (714) 894-5558 today to schedule an appointment for your pet.