Boulevard Animal Hospital Florida

Common Parasites Affecting Dogs and Cats Fleas Fleas are one of the most common parasites pets face. As a result, they cause intense itching, hair loss, and skin infections. In addition, fleas can transmit tapeworms, making treatment even more complicated. Ticks Ticks attach themselves to pets and feed on their blood. Because they carry bacteria, they can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. Therefore, early prevention is essential for avoiding long-term health problems. Heartworms Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. Once infected, pets may develop heart and lung damage. For this reason, heartworm prevention is far safer and more affordable than treatment. Intestinal Parasites Worms such as roundworms and hookworms live inside the digestive tract. Consequently, pets may suffer from vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Moreover, these parasites can spread to humans, especially children. Pet Surgery Hobe Sound Florida - Boulevard Animal Hospital Parasite Prevention for Pets: Our Veterinary Approach At Boulevard Animal Hospital, parasite prevention is never one-size-fits-all. Our veterinarians evaluate your pet’s age, health status, lifestyle, and exposure risks before recommending the best protection plan. Our prevention plans may include: Monthly oral or topical flea and tick preventives Heartworm prevention medications Routine fecal exams to screen for intestinal parasites Blood testing for heartworm disease Year-round preventive schedules customized for Florida pets Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats in Stuart The Importance of Year-Round Parasite Prevention In colder climates, parasite activity slows down during winter. In Stuart, however, warm temperatures allow parasites to stay active all year. That means Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats should never stop. Why continuous prevention is essential Prevents infestations before they start Protects against dangerous diseases Reduces the risk of transmission to humans Saves money on future veterinary treatments Parasites don’t just affect pets—they can invade your home and yard. Choosing the Right Parasite Prevention Plan Every pet is different, and the best protection depends on age, lifestyle, and health history. Common types of parasite preventatives Monthly oral medications Topical treatments Long-lasting flea and tick collars Heartworm preventatives Combination products for multiple parasites Your veterinarian can help A veterinary exam and parasite screening allow your vet to recommend the safest and most effective products for your pet. Signs Your Pet May Have Parasites Even with prevention, it is still important to watch for symptoms. If detected early, parasites can be treated more easily. Watch for symptoms such as: Excessive scratching or licking Red or irritated skin Coughing or fatigue Weight loss Vomiting or diarrhea If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Boulevard Animal Hospital for an evaluation. Protecting Your Pet and