Parasite Control & Prevention

The best way to protect your pet against creepy crawlies is to prevent them all together! Our veterinary team can recommend the most effective parasite control methods based on their likelihood to contract a parasite and other environmental factors. There are also a few preventative measures you can take at home to safeguard your pet against parasites.

Why are parasites a danger to my pet?

There is a range of parasites that can make a home in your pet’s gastrointestinal tract. Some of these include roundworms, whipworms, hookworms and tapeworms. When these parasite’s eggs enter your pet’s body, the worm completes its entire life cycle, growing from small larvae to an adult worm. Intestinal worms can wreak havoc on your pet’s body, causing complications ranging from digestive issues to life-threatening health concerns. Aside from worms, other external parasites like fleas, ticks and mites can be just as harmful as the internal ones.

How do parasite control methods work?

Parasite control methods are available in a few forms, depending on your pet’s needs. Our veterinary team can recommend parasite control methods that tackle both internal and external parasites. These include oral such as Simparica Trio and topical medications that if taken as directed by our team, could significantly decrease your pet’s parasite infection rate. If you have questions about which parasite control method is best for your pet, please contact our veterinary team at 604-544-7387, so we can co-create a prevention plan that works best for them.

Can I use at-home remedies?

At-home remedies tend to contain ingredients that could be harmful to your pet since they aren’t always strictly regulated. Though at-home remedies or over-the-counter medication may be cheaper, they can be more costly in the long run especially if they’re ineffective at treating your pet. Things you can do at home to safeguard your pet from parasites are to ensure you’re feeding your pet a well-balanced diet that supports their immune system, properly dispose of your pet’s waste, and practice good hygiene. Also, regularly examine/clean your pet’s scratches and contact our veterinary team if you have any concerns.