Just saying the word “parasite” is enough to make most people cringe. Did you know that approximately one-third of dogs in the United States have intestinal parasites of some form, and over one in ten Americans have shown evidence of infection with Toxocara, a type of roundworm? These statistics show that parasites pose a health problem to both pets and their families, but fortunately, effective prevention, testing, and treatment options are available. At Pavilion Pet Crossing in Riverview, Florida, we work closely with pet owners to help keep cat and dog parasites under control to protect the whole family.
Pets at risk of parasites
Parasites can affect any cat or dog, no matter where they live and whether they spend most of their time indoors or outside. In Florida, we have a climate that leaves pets particularly susceptible to a variety of parasites, including:
- Tapeworms
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Whipworms
- Heartworms (in dogs)
- Coccidia
- Toxoplasmosis
- Giardia
- Fleas
- Mites
- Ticks
In addition to causing uncomfortable symptoms such as itching or digestive problems, parasites can also be carriers for diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and more. Unfortunately, many of the above parasites can also be transmitted to humans by pets, which is why it is crucial for your pet and your family’s health to perform routine parasite testing.
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Preventing and treating parasites
The great news is that pet parasites are easy to prevent with routine preventative medications. Dog owners should give their dog a heartworm pill every month, and many heartworm prevention pills also contain medications to prevent and treat intestinal parasites as well as fleas and ticks. There are also individual preventative treatments available for fleas, ticks, and worms in cats and dogs.
We screen for parasites during your pet’s annual exam and are also happy to evaluate if your pet is showing signs of a parasitic infection. The treatment for parasites in pets depends on the specific parasite, and we will walk you through your options to eradicate the parasite and return your pet to health.
To schedule an appointment at Pavilion Crossing Animal Hospital, call (813) 670-8881 today!
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Dr. Keshava Eega
Pavilion Crossing Animal Hospital
Dr. Keshava Eega moved to the United States in 2003 to further his passion for practicing high-quality and modern veterinary medicine in a challenging environment. Having graduated from the College of Veterinary Science in Hyderabad, India, he then completed his Master’s in Animal Science and the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam in 2006. Dr. Eega then completed his clinical rotations at the Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine and subsequently obtained his license to practice Veterinary Medicine in the state of Florida. Dr. Eega possesses thirteen years of experience in corporate practice in Orlando as both an Associate Veterinarian and a Lead Doctor. Through the course of his tenure, he has gained vast and widespread experience and exposure in both the practice of high-quality veterinary medicine and soft tissue surgeries. He also possesses professional interests in preventive care, senior pet care, skin cases, nutrition, behavior and wellness exams, particularly for both cats and dogs. Dr. Eega also possesses Fear Free certification which enables him to rid pets, owners and even veterinary health care teams of fear, stress, and anxiety. Hence, in the hands of Dr. Eega, you can be assured that your pet receives modern, customized care in a comfortable environment!