PARASITE PROTECTION FOR DOGS

The parasite protection for dogs is one of the vital components of canine preventative care. It protects your dog against both internal and external parasites. In addition to causing minor skin irritations, these parasites have the potential to create serious, potentially fatal diseases in dogs.

Dogs are often exposed to parasites through environmental contamination, exposure to other infected animals, contaminated water sources and biting insects. Because many parasites can spread through the environment, insect vectors, or contact with infected animals. Consistent parasite control via preventative measures is far superior to treating the animal after it becomes infested.

Causes

The chances for a dog to come into contact with parasites in most daily scenarios depend on lifestyle, environment, and cleanliness.

The typical places that cause parasites in dogs include:

• Fleas or ticks from grassy areas, such as parks, other pets, etc.
• Mosquito bites that carry heartworm larvae.
• Eating contaminated food, raw meat, or infected prey.
• Contact with infected feces in soil or public areas
• Contaminated water sources
• Direct contact with infected dogs or wildlife.

Types of Parasites

Dogs are affected by several external and internal parasites.

External Parasites

These live on the skin or coat and include:

• Fleas
• Ticks
• Mites (causing mange)
• Lice

All of these external parasites can result in itching and irritation to the skin, causing hair loss, and may lead to secondary bacterial infections.

Internal Parasites

These live inside the body, mainly in the intestines or blood system, such as:

• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Tapeworms
• Whipworms
• Heartworms

Internal parasites commonly live within the digestive tract, bloodstream, or other tissues.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms that occur as a result of parasitic infections are based on the type and intensity of the parasites causing the infection.

Signs of External Parasites

• Excessive scratching or biting at the skin
• Hair loss or bald patches
• Red or inflamed skin
• Visible fleas or ticks
• Restlessness or discomfort
• Skin infections or scabs

Signs of Internal Parasites

• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Weight loss despite normal appetite
• Pot bellied appearance in puppies
• Weakness or lethargy
• Visible worms in stool or around the anus
• Coughing in cases of heartworm infection

Many times, some dogs will have very little to no signs of infection during the initial stage(s), which is why it is so important to regularly use preventative measures.

Risks

An untreated parasitic infection in a dog can lead to serious health issues.

Health Complications

• Dogs suffering from flea or hookworm parasitism can experience severe anemia as a result of blood loss.
• Puppies may suffer from malnutrition and stunted growth due to gastrointestinal parasitism.
• Parasites can also cause skin infections and longterm dermatitis.
• Dogs with heavy worm infestation may experience intestinal obstruction or damage.
• In some cases, heartworm disease can lead to severe heart and lung disease and may be fatal if left untreated.
• Parasites may dehydrate and weaken their host.

Zoonotic Risk

Some parasites may infect humans and are commonly spread by children. For instance, roundworms and hookworms can infect people when they come into contact with contaminated feces or contaminated soil; therefore, parasite management should be implemented for household safety.

Diagnosis

Veterinarians use both physical signs and lab testing to determine if an animal has a parasite infection.

Some of the most common diagnostic procedures used by veterinarians include;

• Fecal examination to detect intestinal worm infestations
• Skin scraping to examine for mite infestations
• Blood tests to identify potential Heartworm infestation
• Microscopy on skin or ear samples
• Physical examination for evidence of fleas, ticks, skin disease or other parasites.

In order to catch a parasite infestation early in its development, regular veterinary visits are recommended.

Treatment

External parasites require different treatments depending on their type and the extent of the infestation.

External Parasite Treatment

• Flea and tick medications are available (oral or topical)
• Cleanliness with medicated shampoo or spray
• Environmental control measures may be needed to reduce flea and tick populations in the home and surrounding environment.
• Treat secondary bacterial skin infections if they occur due to parasitic infection

Internal Parasite Treatment

• Medications used to kill internal worms depend on what species of worm it is (e.g., heartworms, whipworms, etc.)
• A standard protocol exists for treating heartworms (frequently long term and under close monitoring from your veterinarian)
• Supportive therapy can include blood transfusions, fluids, and nutritional support when animals suffer from significant anemia or dehydration.

Prevention

Prevention of parasite infections is easier, safer, and less expensive than treatment for an active parasitic infection.

Regular Preventive Medications

• Flea & Tick medications that need to be given monthly.
• Schedules of regular deworming (as recommended by your Veterinarian)
• Your veterinarian may recommend year-round Heartworm prevention in high risk locations.

Environmental Controls

• Cleanliness and dryness of your dog’s living areas.
• Washing your dog’s bedding and grooming equipment regularly.
• Appropriate disposal of pet waste.
• Control of flea populations in the home environment.

Lifestyle Changes

• Avoidance of areas that have large amounts of ticks or fleas.
• Pet owners should avoid feeding their pets raw or contaminated foods.
• Veterinary approved products used at all times during the year; Consistency is important, missed doses will provide an opportunity for parasite exposure.