Parasite Control & Prevention

Parasites are harmful creatures that can infect your pet. Parasitic infections are expensive to treat and they can be fatal which is why we encourage preventative treatment from a young age. Our clinic can work with you to create a parasite prevention and control plan that protects your furry friend all through the year. We encourage pet owners to enroll their loyal companion in the prevention program so they won’t have any missed or late doses (which can leave furry friends unprotected). To learn more about our parasite prevention program, call 403-637-3928.

What parasites may affect my pet?

The parasites that may infect your pet can be classified into two groups: internal and external. Internal parasites live inside your pet’s digestive system and they are detected through stool examination or blood testing. External parasites live on your pet’s skin and are identified through physical examination and testing. It is important to protect your furry friend against both as some parasites are zoonotic and can be transmitted to humans. Here are some examples of parasites that may affect your pet:

1. Heartworms
2. Ticks
3. Fleas
4. Mites
5. Hookworms
6. Coccidia
7. Whipworms
8. Roundworms
9. Tapeworms

What are signs my pet may be infected with parasites?

In most cases the signs of a parasitic infection don’t present themselves in the early stages. This means that by the time you see a sign the parasites have already multiplied. It is imperative you have your pet examined by a vet once you spot any of these signs:

• Lethargy
• Swollen belly
• Itching
• Redness of the skin
• Brown or black discharge in the ears 

How can I protect my pet from parasites?

To ensure your loyal companion gets the protection they need, they should be on a year-round prevention plan. Some medications may be administered on a monthly basis but we strongly encourage pet owners to strictly follow the plan. Our clinic will recommend medications that protect against internal and external parasites. We may also recommend routine testing for some parasites.