Pet Parasite
Prevention
Pet Parasite
Prevention
Protection from Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms
Companion Care Animal Hospital takes pet parasite prevention seriously.
Year-round protection strategies are needed to keep pets free from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites in Wheatfield, NY. Parasites can cause long-term health issues and even spread disease to other pets or humans in some cases. We work closely with our customers to create parasite prevention plans for all animal companions.
Fleas, Ticks, and Your Pet
Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, Bartonella (cat scratch fever), and tapeworms. These pests can be picked up during walks, visits to parks, contact with other animals, or even from your own backyard. Indoor cats are susceptible to these parasites, too, because other pets or people can bring them inside.
A single flea can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation, and ticks often go unnoticed until they have already bitten your companion. Preventing exposure before it starts is always safer and far less stressful than dealing with an outbreak later.
A single flea can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation, and ticks often go unnoticed until they have already bitten your companion. Preventing exposure before it starts is always safer and far less stressful than dealing with an outbreak later.
Heartworms and Intestinal Parasites
Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause severe heart and lung damage. Dogs are more likely to get infected with heartworm disease, but cats can still get heartworms. Heartworm can be fatal to all pets if left untreated. Currently, there is no cure for heartworm in cats, and treatment for dogs can be very intensive.
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms are picked up through contaminated soil, feces, or infected prey. These pet parasites can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and other serious health issues.
Routine screening and proactive, preventive treatments are very important to keeping these parasites under control.
How to Prevent Parasites from Infecting Your Pet
We strongly recommend that all pets stay on parasite prevention year-round.
Keeping up with parasite prevention is the only way to continuously guard against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. Prevention is more cost-effective and easier for your pet than treating a full-blown infection or infestation.
Puppies and kittens can begin parasite prevention as soon as they reach the appropriate age and weight.
We have topical flea and tick preventives and ingestible medications for heartworms and internal parasites.
Dogs should be tested for heartworm annually, even if they are on regular prevention. Cats can be screened on an as-needed basis.
Intestinal parasite screenings (fecals) are recommended at least once a year for all pets.
Choosing pet parasite prevention keeps your companion one step ahead of parasites in every season, every year.
FAQs About Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms
How do I get rid of fleas on my pet and in my home?
If your pet has fleas, our staff can recommend a safe, effective treatment plan. This usually includes a veterinary-approved topical or oral medication and a thorough cleaning of your home. Vacuuming, washing bedding, and treating carpets or furniture may be needed. Getting rid of fleas typically takes weeks, potentially even a few months, due to the lifecycle of fleas.
What should I do if my pet was bitten by a tick?
Remove the tick promptly and safely with tweezers, putting the tip of the tweezers as close to your pet’s skin as possible. Call us to discuss whether testing or treatment is needed. Some tick-borne diseases can take weeks to show symptoms, so early evaluation is always a good idea.
Can indoor pets get parasites?
Yes. Fleas, ticks, and even mosquitoes can enter your home, and some parasites are transmitted through contaminated food or surfaces. Prevention is recommended for all pets, regardless of lifestyle.
Are heartworms contagious between pets?
No. Heartworms aren’t transmitted directly from pet to pet. However, the same heartworm-carrying mosquito can bite multiple pets.
Is pet parasite prevention safe for puppies and kittens?
Absolutely, as long as they meet age and weight requirements. Our knowledgeable staff will help you choose the safest, most effective products for your growing puppy or kitten.
Pet Parasite Prevention in Wheatfield, NY
Protecting your companion from pet parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms can make a huge difference in their lives. Companion Care Animal Hospital creates parasite prevention plans that fit your pet’s lifestyle and keep parasites out of the picture. Choose year-round parasite protection and testing you can count on.
Pet Parasite Prevention in Wheatfield, NY
Protecting your companion from pet parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms can make a huge difference in their lives. Companion Care Animal Hospital creates parasite prevention plans that fit your pet’s lifestyle and keep parasites out of the picture. Choose year-round parasite protection and testing you can count on.
Companion Care Animal Hospital provides flea, tick, and heartworm prevention for cats and dogs in Wheatfield, Sanborn, Niagara Falls, Pendleton, Grand Island, North Tonawanda, Lockport, Lewiston, Cambria, Ransomville, Town of Tonawanda, Town of Niagara, Amherst, and surrounding areas. While we serve these regions, physical offices are not present at each location.
