Our pets are frequently exposed to parasites, such as fleas, ticks and worms. Not only do they harm our pets but are also a risk to you and your family.
Fleas are little black creepy crawlers living in the fur of our dogs and cats. They snack on dogs, cats, humans and other furry animals. They are not just causing raised itchy bite marks but can also trigger flea allergic dermatitis, anaemia and transmit tapeworms. Over 95% of the fleas live in the environment and only jump on to you or your pet to feed. So, when you see one flea on your dog or cat, you likely already having a flea infestation of your house. Also, adult fleas make only 5% of your flea population, the rest being eggs, pupae and larvae, and they are difficult to kill! Therefore, we strongly recommend year-round flea prevention by using suitable flea products available at Ashwood Vets. Our motto is: prevention is better than treatment – after all, it takes over three months to get rid of fleas and will involve not just treating your pets but also your house and car!
Ticks are small parasites, which drink your pet’s or your blood. They grow in size and finally fall off. It is not just uncomfortable, but they can also transmit diseases such as Lyme’s disease seen in humans (https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/vectorborne/lymedisease/factsheet/) and dogs (https://www.msd-animal-health.ie/diseases/dogs/parasitic_disease/ticks/Introduction.aspx), or other tick-borne diseases like Babesiosis, which fortunately is uncommon on Ireland. By using suitable tick products available at Ashwood Vets, you can protect your pet and yourself.
Worms (tapeworms, roundworms, whipworms, etc.) live in the gastrointestinal tract of your pets. They are very common and are a health risk to your pet and yourself. Children are especially susceptible to get Toxocariasis, an infection of the gut worm Toxocara cani or cati from dogs or cats, resulting in potentially serious health issues and even damage of the eyes in children (https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/az/t/toxocariasis/). Therefore, it is recommended to treat your pet regularly, at least every three months but monthly if concerned.
Angiostrongylus vasorum is a worm living in the main vessels of the heart and lungs of dogs, foxes and badgers. Slugs and snails can transmit the larvae, resulting in a potentially life-threatening lung worm infection with exercise intolerance, respiratory symptoms, bleeding and others. The diagnosis can be challenging and multiple tests may have to be performed such as a blood test AngioDetect available at the practice or faecal test. Regular treatment with a special worming treatment available at Ashwood Vets on a monthly basis is required to prevent this infection.
Mites and lice:
Mites and lice cause itchy skin (or ears in cases of ear mites) and can be very upsetting for your pet. Different types and clinical presentations need to be treated differently but don’t worry, we will advise you about the best way to treat your pet.