Understanding Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats
Parasites are more than a seasonal nuisance—they’re a year-round threat to your pet’s health. At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we emphasize preventive care to protect your dog or cat from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms before they cause serious problems.
Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can lead to skin infections, allergic reactions, and the transmission of diseases like Lyme, Ehrlichia, and Bartonella. Even indoor pets are at risk if other animals bring parasites into the home. Ticks can be active even in cold months, especially during mild winters.
Heartworms are another major concern. Transmitted through mosquito bites, heartworms live in the heart and lungs and can cause severe, often fatal damage if left untreated. Dogs are most susceptible, but cats can also be infected—even if they never go outside.
Then there are intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These worms can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and even anemia. Some parasites are also zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to people—especially children or those with compromised immune systems.
The good news is that all of these parasites are easily preventable. Dominion Valley offers a variety of safe, veterinarian-approved prevention options tailored to your pet’s size, lifestyle, and risk level. These include oral medications, topical treatments, and combination products that protect against multiple parasites at once.
During your pet’s wellness visit, we’ll recommend a prevention plan and perform tests like fecal exams or heartworm screenings to make sure your pet is free from current infections. We’ll also send home detailed instructions so you can stay on schedule with monthly doses.
Parasite prevention isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your pet from serious health issues and keeping your household safe. If you’ve fallen behind on your pet’s preventatives or just want to explore new options, schedule an appointment today at (703) 753-4444 or visit us at 5371 Merchants View SquareHaymarket, VA 20169. We’ll help you build a prevention plan that works all year long.
