Pet Parasite Prevention

Certain intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, are often found in puppies and kittens, who contract them from their mothers.

Parasite prevention

Common pet parasites include:

  • Fleas
  • Ticks
  • Heartworms
  • Roundworms
  • Coccidia
  • Tapeworms
  • Whipworms
  • Giardia
  • Hookworms

Fleas and Ticks

Ticks are picked up from the outdoors and often perch on the edges of leaves and blades of grass so they can climb onto a passing host. Ticks have four life stages: egg, larvae, nymph, and adult. Fleas also have four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. These can also be tracked into the house from outside, or they may already be inside the home. Fleas can trigger allergic reactions in pets and can transmit tapeworms to their hosts. Ticks can infect their hosts with harmful conditions such as:

  • Lyme disease
  • Ehrlichiosis
  • Tick paralysis
  • Anaplasmosis
  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

How to Protect Your Pet from Parasites

There is never a guarantee that your pet will be 100% protected at all times from fleas, ticks, and other intruders. However, parasite preventatives can greatly reduce your pet’s risk of becoming infected and/or infested.

At the Veterinary Clinic of Lubbock, we take pet parasite prevention very seriously because we know how damaging parasites can be to your pet’s health. That’s why we recommend Bravecto, a flea and tick preventative that comes in the form of a chew for dogs and a topical solution for cats. This medication is designed to start killing fleas and ticks within 12 hours, and one dose can last up to 12 weeks. To learn more about preventing parasites and protecting your animal companion, give us a call at 806-792-8387.

Schedule a Visit with the Veterinary Clinic of Lubbock

If your pet is in need of veterinary care or due for their semi-annual examination, please contact our team for assistance. Some of the other services we offer include pet wellness care, vaccinations, surgical services, spay & neuter, dentistrypet allergies, parvovirus vaccination, and tick protection. We look forward to seeing you and your pet soon!