Why We Recommend Pet Parasite Prevention in Evanston, IL
Parasite prevention is an important part of your pet’s lifelong health plan. This is because fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal worms are more than just annoying pests--they can also carry diseases. In addition, some of these diseases can infect humans as well as animals. At Fox Animal Hospital, we work to stay knowledgeable regarding parasite-borne diseases and the latest treatment options available. As ever, your pet’s health and safety is our priority.
Pet Parasites You Should Know About
The most common parasites that dogs, cats and their owners encounter include:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Heartworms
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Whipworms
- Tapeworms
- Giardia
- Coccidia
These parasites can cause a variety of health problems in their hosts, from gastrointestinal disorders (vomiting and diarrhea) to Lyme disease and heartworm disease. Some diseases, such as heartworm and Lyme, can be very dangerous if they aren’t treated quickly. Advanced heartworm disease is especially life-threatening, since as heartworms multiply they block the flow of blood through the major arteries to the heart.
Other conditions, such as roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm infestations, can be treated with medication. While they are not as dangerous as heartworm and Lyme disease, they can still make your pet very sick, especially if your pet is very young or very old.
Prevention for Your Dog and Cat is the Best Treatment
Preventing parasite infestations entirely is ideal for helping your pet avoid harmful illnesses and potentially stressful vet visits. At Fox Animal Hospital, we recommend the administration of parasite preventives as directed all throughout the year. This is because even in winter, fleas and ticks can go dormant and then reawaken as soon as the temperature rises above freezing. The threat of parasites never truly goes away, and therefore it is best to be proactive and ensure complete, year-round protection for your pet.
To learn more about parasites, parasitic diseases, and the prevention options we offer, give us a call at (847) 869-4900.