by Abbie Harrison, RVN SQP, Ryedale Vets
Parasites can be a problem for our pets all year round.
They can come from multiple places such as when out on walks, in contact with other animals, or through some foods. It is important to keep up with preventative treatment so they don’t become a problem and make your pet poorly.
Ectoparasites are parasites that live on the outside of your pet such as ticks and fleas. Ticks are mainly picked up in woodland areas or on the moors where there are lots of grasses. They look like a pale wart with legs and also have teeth that they use to bite your pet and feed on them. If they get stressed whilst attached, they can disperse toxins into your pet so it is important to use a tick hook to remove them.
Fleas can come from other animals, including wildlife, and can become a problem if not dealt with. If your pet has fleas, it is likely that 95% of the problem is based within your home, such as flea eggs and larvae as well as adult fleas. The eggs and larvae are ‘activated’ when it becomes warm (central heating) and with vibrations, such as hoovering. These then hatch or develop into adult fleas and jump onto your pet. You can treat your house using a flea household spray, using as directed by the instructions. A flea infestation in the home can take months to get under control.
Endoparasites are ones that live on the inside of your pet, such as worms. The most common type of worm is a roundworm, but others include lungworm, tapeworm and heartworm. It is important to wash your hands after handling your pet, especially if you have young children as some worms can be passed onto them. It is also important to pick up your pet’s faeces if out walking to prevent the spread between other animals.
Please always call if you think your pet may have fleas, ticks, worms or any other parasites, and always call ahead to order your preventative medications to avoid reinfestations in the future.
For more information about Ryedale Vets visit: www.ryedalevets.co.uk
Station Road, Helmsley, YO62 5BZ Tel: 01439 771166
133 Eastgate, Pickering, YO18 7DW Tel: 01751 472204
4 Howe End, Kirbymoorside, York YO62 6BD Tel: 01751 472204
- Pesky Parasites - March 25, 2022