Parasites – it is a word that makes most people squirm when they hear it. To think that their pet may have parasites makes one shudder. It is hard to imagine that the little ball of fur that you snuggle with every night may have worms, fleas or some other ‘creepy crawly,’ however it may be true.

There are two different groups of parasites – internal and external. Internal parasites are commonly known as worms (hookworm, whipworm, tapeworm and roundworms) and external parasites are fleas, ticks, ear mites and mange mites.

Many people are not aware of the health risks to both pets and people associated with parasites. The most common internal infection is of intestinal parasites found in dogs and cats called the roundworm. Roundworm and hookworm infections are zoonotic – meaning that although this is an animal disease, it can be transmitted to humans.

Having direct contact with an infected dog or cat can increase your chance of becoming infected, however most people actually get worms from the accidental eating of the worm larvae. Children playing in areas that may contain feces infested with worm eggs such as sandboxes can be at risk of accidentally ingesting larvae. If left untreated, roundworms can cause serious health issues in humans.

Although many people feel that pets should be “de-wormed” only during the summer, and others do not even treat at all, pet owners need to develop the habit of treating year round. This will ensure the highest level of health and well being for your entire family – both two and four-legged alike. Treating only during the summer months is a good start, but parasites can infect your pet at any time of the year. Although fleas and ticks may be less of a problem during the cold winters we experience, internal parasites can be in the environment year round.

Pets can have worms without showing any outward signs. If pets have diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting or a change in their appetite or coat, they may have a large infestation and should see your regular veterinarian. They can diagnose intestinal parasites through a physical exam and microscopic analysis of your pets’ fecal material and prescribe a treatment plan.

To reduce the risk of a parasitic infection in your family and pet, there are a few things you can do to keep everyone safe. Set up an appointment for your pet to have an annual physical exam and discuss a preventative de-worming protocol. There are many options available and your veterinarian will work closely with you in the best interest of your animal. Encourage your family to practice good personal hygiene. Children should be discouraged from eating dirt and sandboxes should be covered when not in use. Everyone should always wash his or her hands after handling soil. Also, you can prevent the spread of any of these internal parasites by picking up your pet’s droppings immediately. Disposing of pet feces on a regular basis can help remove potentially infective worm eggs before they are distributed through the environment and hatch. One worm can lay over 100,000 eggs per day.

Ensure that your pet and family are safe this summer and discuss parasites with your veterinarian. Prevention is the key for a healthy family.

Article by Tammy Mazubert
Submitted by Pamela Amos