Key Points about Parasites
Our patients should be placed on a monthly parasite prevention plan on an ongoing basis. However, keep in mind that there is not a single approach. Just as our patients are unique, so are the parasites they can acquire. Consider the following points when designing a parasite protocol.
1. Parasite prevalence is largely determined by geography. Parasites and their intermediate hosts will survive in environments that are most suitable for their growth and reproduction. Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are carried by mosquitoes, and so will naturally be more prevalent in a humid, coastal environment than a dry, landlocked one.
It is not only important to know what parasites are common for your region, it is also critical to be able to take a detailed history of the animal’s travel status to determine potential exposure. Current prevalence maps for many parasites in North America are provided by the Companion Animal Parasite Council. http://www.petsandparasites.org/parasite-prevalence-maps/#2017/all/lyme-disease/dog/united-states/
2. Parasite diagnosis, prevention, and treatment are determined by the life cycle of the parasite.
a. In some cases, parasite prevention and treatment requires the control of intermediate hosts. For example, tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) are acquired through the ingestion of fleas (Ctenocephalides felis), so adequate flea control is necessary to prevent tapeworm infections.
b. In other cases, parasite prevention and treatment is achieved through specifically timed administration of anti-parasitics. The prepatent period for a parasite is the amount of time required from infection by an immature parasite to parasite maturation and its reproduction. The prepatent period for hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum) is approximately 2–3 weeks, which is why deworming occurs at similar intervals in puppies.
It is critical to possess a knowledge of the life cycles of common parasites for your geographic location to determine their risk and to develop effective prevention and treatment plans.
3. Parasites can be spread to all animals, even those that are indoor-only or do not have contact with other animals. Rodents, pests, or wild animals nearby the building could permit parasites access to household pets through building structures like windows or a crawlspace. Some parasites, such as the eggs of roundworms (Toxocara canis), can remain viable in the soil for an extend period of time and could be unwittingly carried into a home on the soles of shoes.
Clients should be educated that all pets, even those who have minimal contact with others, should be kept on appropriate year-round parasite preventives.
For the most current recommendations of parasite prevention, visit: