Fleas/Ticks/Heartworm/
Parasites

Intestinal Parasites

Hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm, and whipworm are just a few of the damaging intestinal parasites that can threaten your pet’s health. You may not see any symptoms that your pet may have a parasite infestation until it becomes a very serious medical concern. Some of these parasites can also be transmitted from pets to humans. We recommend that all pets have a stool sample examined at least once a year. When a stool sample is looked at under a microscope, we are looking for the parasite’s eggs. Puppies and kittens have a higher risk for infection and will likely be given deworming medication. People should practice good hygiene and use common sense to minimize exposure to “zoonotic “parasites. Dispose of fecal matter properly, encourage children to wash their hands after playing, and keep sand boxes covered to prevent both domesticated and wild animals from defecating in. 

Heartworm Disease

Heartworms are parasites that inhabit the heart and lungs of infected dogs and cats. The heartworm larva is transmitted by mosquito bites. Heartworm infection can cause serious health problems and may eventually lead to heart failure and death. A pet with a very early infection may not show signs. Heartworm Facts:
1. Adult heartworms live in the right side of the heart.
2. They are 6-14 inches long. Several hundred may be present in the dog.
3. Heartworms impair blood circulation, resulting in damage to the heart, lungs, liver & kidneys.
4. Advanced signs include difficulty breathing, coughing, tiring easily, listlessness, loss of weight & fainting.
5. Heartworms are found throughout the U.S.
A test for heartworm disease is done in an in-house blood test. Get your pets checked and start them on heartworm prevention. The medication to prevent heartworm is safe and easy to give. 

Flea Control

 A flea problem on your pet means a flea problem in your home. Understanding the flea life cycle and methods for its control can be a daunting task. We will gladly assist you in this process. We can provide you with safe, effective flea prevention and if necessary, flea treatment. See the flea article in the Pet Health Library of our site.