Parasites can wreak havoc in the lives of their hosts. Whether internal or external, you must take the proper measures to prevent infestation. For that, you need to take your pet to the vet for checking at least once a year. Grooming is also a critical part of preventing infestation. It reduces the chances of infestation by external parasites. 

Preventing Malnutrition

Parasitic infestation can lead to malnutrition in animals. They can do this by sucking the host’s blood and causing anemia. They can also cause diarrhea and vomiting, which increases nutrient waste. Parasites may affect your pet’s appetite and damage its intestines. It will make your pet eat less and not get enough food to replace what it loses through diarrhea and vomiting.

When you notice your pet has diarrhea, vomiting, or a loss of appetite, take them to the vet. They will get a checkup to determine if they have parasites. The vet will use medication or dewormers to get rid of the parasites.

Preventing Disease

Parasitic infestation can lead to disease and infections. Diseases like anemia can cause jaundice and loss of energy and appetite. It can also affect the animal’s pulse and breathing, causing them to increase. 
 

The animal’s body tries to compensate for the blood loss. The blood loss leads to less oxygen in the body. Parasites can cause inflammation and damage to the intestines. It can lead to infections that cause your pet to be lethargic.

Preventing Skin Damage

Parasites can cause severe skin damage with diseases like scabies and mange. Some forms of mange, like sarcoptic mange, are zoonotic. It means they can pass on from animal to human beings. The disease can cause constant scratching and chewing of the skin. It hurts the skin and leads to hair loss. The skin becomes thick and dark.

The vet may propose a course of treatment that involves dipping or using a topical medication. Some cases may require a combination of the treatments. Follow the instructions, and your pet will stop scratching after four or five days.

Preventing the Transfer of Diseases to Humans

Some parasitic infections are zoonotic, meaning they can pass on to humans. Those most at risk are children since they are always playing outside in areas where there may be animal feces. The fecal matter may get on their clothes and hands and cause exposure to the parasites. Prevention of parasites ensures that you keep your family safe.

All Around Comfort and Safety

When you take prevention measures like practicing good hygiene and deworming your pet, it keeps everyone safe. Your pet will not experience the discomfort and pain parasites bring, and your family will not worry about transmission. 

Practice good hygiene by wearing gloves when handling animal feces. Also, pick up feces to reduce contamination and the risk of exposure. Deworm your pets a few times every year to prevent worm infestations.
 

For more information on parasite prevention, call  (541) 895-5665 to reach South Willamette Veterinary Clinic at our office in Creswell, Oregon.