Cat and Dog Flea and Tick Prevention in Woodbridge, VA

At Minnieville Animal Hospital, we take parasite prevention very seriously. Parasites are a

danger

to all pets, including those who spend most of their time indoors, making yearly testing and monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention vital to maintaining your pet’s overall health.

or give us a call at (703) 680-4000.

What are Intestinal Parasites?

Dogs and cats can both be affected by intestinal parasites including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and giardia. These parasites are common to our area and can infect your pet via their eggs, which may be tracked into your home on the bottom of your shoes.

Intestinal parasites are typically asymptomatic, which means testing and monthly preventative medication is the only way to ensure your pet is healthy and parasite free.

The Importance of Flea and Tick Prevention

External parasites such as fleas and ticks can be found in many popular spots for dogs and cats, including backyards, patios, on walks, or in dog parks. Not only do these parasites transmit diseases such as Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme disease, but can also cause uncomfortable symptoms including itching, hair loss, allergies, anemia, and skin infection.

Pets should receive flea and tick prevention all year round, especially during the warmer months. Fleas can present an additional problem by spreading from your pet to infest your home, which creates a much larger issue. We can help protect your pet and your home from fleas, ticks and other external parasites through monthly preventatives and regular testing.

How Heartworms Affect Dogs and Cats

Heartworms are potentially deadly parasites that affect your dog or cat’s heart. Mosquitos can spread heartworm disease by biting an infected animal such as a coyote, feral cat, or other wild animal prior to feeding on a healthy animal.

Heartworms can clog your pet’s heart valves and cause a range of symptoms in pets. Symptoms may not present at first, however, dogs and cats may exhibit the following:

Dogs:

  • Mild cough
  • Reluctance to exercise
  • Fatigue after moderate activity
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss

Cats:

  • Coughing
  • Asthma attacks
  • Vomiting
  • Lack of appetite
  • Weight loss

Heartworms cannot live in the human blood stream, but an infected pet may become a source of infection to other pets which makes consistent testing essential to protecting all pets in your household.

A blood test can be performed to evaluate for an antigen and confirm a diagnosis, however radiographs or echocardiograms may be done as additional testing. Monthly preventatives are the most effective form of heartworm treatment and protection.

Get the best care for your best friend.