Beattie Pet Hospital - Stoney Creek
Prevention
Fleas
While some may dismiss fleas as simple pests, a pet infested with them can become lethal quickly. Another common misconception believing our pets cannot get fleas if they are completely indoors or only go outside to use the bathroom. Fleas can land on anything or anyone outside and be brought into the house, they thrive in the well-regulated temperature of our homes.
Ticks
Ticks are not fun for anyone! Especially when there are many different kinds. The most common species of ticks in southwestern Ontario are deer ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks. While all are unpleasant for our furry friends, deer ticks are the ones to keep an eye out for, as they are the ones that can carry Lyme disease. This is why monthly tick prevention is so important!
Heartworm
Heartworm is a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes that lives in the heart. It is a serious disease that makes the heart have to work harder, and can cause things like exercise intolerance, increased breathing difficulty and eventually heart failure if left untreated. ALL dogs are at risk of contracting heartworm no matter what their lifestyle may be.
Intestinal Worms
Intestinal worms, such as roundworm, hookworm and whipworm, can come from many things, including contact in the environment. Tapeworm is another type of intestinal worm that can be transmitted through fleas via grooming. All puppies and kittens will have worms when they are born, so it is highly recommended that you discuss a parasite prevention plan with your veterinarian to find a plan that is best for your little one!
Parasite Prevention
There are many different types of prevention we carry, and they come in two different forms; oral and topical. The range of what our parasite prevention covers can vary - some only do fleas, some fleas and ticks, and some do fleas, ticks, heartworm with some internal parasite coverage. Speak with your veterinarian about which type of parasite prevention would be best for your pet!
