Parasites

Parasites

Get rid of those pesky critters.

Your pet is an easy target for parasites and small insects. Common parasites like ticks, fleas and heartworm-carrying mosquitos feed on your pets, potentially infecting them with many dangerous diseases. Discover how these tiny pests can cause big problems.

Fleas

These bloodsucking insects feed on mammals and lay eggs in their fur. Fleas can transmit harmful parasites like Tapeworms and Murine Typhus, as well as cause dermatitis and anemia. One flea can reproduce nearly 50 times a day, making a flea infestation a substantial threat to your pet’s wellbeing. Flea infestations often spread throughout your home — living in your carpet and furniture and making them tough to eradicate.

Ticks

Ticks are found lurking in shrubs and tall grass. They attach to your pet as they run past, biting them and feeding on their blood. Although nearly microscopic, the tick represents one of the most potent dangers to your pet’s health. A single tick bite can carry a host of potentially fatal diseases including Lyme Disease, Typhus, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichiosis Anaplasmosis.

Although rare, animal-to-human transfer is possible, making the tick hazardous to you and your family. Special care should be made to inspect your pet, and yourself, after any woodland outdoor activities.

Heartworm

Heartworm-carrying mosquitos represent a lethal danger to your pet. The mosquito’s bite transmits the heartworm larva to your animal, it then slowly develops and makes its way toward the heart. Once in the heart it multiples within your pet’s pulmonary artery, leading to constricted blood flow, heart disease and major organ failure.

Parasite Prevention Plan

Regular application of anti-parasitic medication is a surefire way of keeping your pet free of nasty parasites. Consult with your Bear Valley Veterinary Care Center veterinarian to determine the best parasite control products for your pet.

Bear Valley Veterinary Care Center’s Parasite Prevention Plan includes:

  • Pet examination and testing
  • Parasite-control product consultation with a Bear Valley Veterinary Care Center veterinarian
  • Access to industry-best medicine and equipment

Schedule an appointment immediately if you suspect that your cat or dog may already be infected.