Comprehensive Parasite Prevention & Protection for Your Pet
Parasites can go from being an inconvenience to seriously damaging your pet’s health. Internal parasites (hookworms, heartworms, and roundworms) and external parasites (ticks and fleas) are common in pets. Some of these parasites can go from your pet to you or your family (zoonotic).
To stop parasites from harming your pets and family, prevention is necessary. We recommend routine exams and laboratory testing to screen for parasites. We carry many of the leading medications and preventative medicines, on-hand and available at our practice. We will help you determine which product will work best for your pet.
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Fleas
Fleas are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of animals and can quickly become a major nuisance for both pets and humans. These parasites not only cause discomfort but can also lead to more serious skin conditions and allergic reactions in pets.
Common Signs of a Flea Infestation:
- Frequent scratching, biting, or licking
- Flea dirt (tiny black specks) visible in your pet’s coat
- Reddish-brown specks on bedding, furniture, or pet areas
- Skin irritation, redness, or rash
- Hair loss or the development of hot spots (inflamed, sore patches)
Ticks
Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that attach to pets and can transmit serious illnesses, including Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Their bites are not only painful but also difficult to detect and remove once embedded in the skin.
Common Symptoms of Tick Exposure:
- A visible tick attached to your pet’s skin
- Redness, swelling, or irritation at the bite site
- Lethargy or decreased energy
- Fever
- Joint pain or swelling
- In severe cases, signs of paralysis or neurological issues
Roundworms
Roundworms are long, spaghetti-like parasitic worms that live in the intestines of infected animals. They are especially common in young puppies and kittens and can be transmitted through contaminated soil, feces, or from mother to offspring.
Common Symptoms of Roundworm Infection:
- Bloated or potbellied appearance (especially in young pets)
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Poor weight gain or failure to thrive
- Visible worms in feces or vomit
- Coughing (if larvae have migrated to the lungs)
Hookworms
Hookworms are small, thread-like parasites that attach to the lining of the intestines using hook-shaped mouthparts. They feed on blood and can cause significant health issues, particularly in young or immunocompromised pets.
Common Symptoms of Hookworm Infection:
- Pale gums, indicating anemia
- Bloody or tarry stools
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Heartworms in Dogs & Cats
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects both dogs and cats. It’s caused by a parasite known as Dirofilaria immitis, a type of worm that, if left untreated, can lead to severe damage to the heart, lungs, and other vital organs—and may even result in death.
At Hartsdale Veterinary Hospital in Hartsdale, NY, we emphasize prevention because heartworm disease is spread by mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it ingests microscopic baby worms (microfilariae). These are then transmitted to another animal through a subsequent bite. Once inside a new host, the worms mature into adults—living in the bloodstream for 5 to 7 years in dogs and 2 to 3 years in cats. Regular testing and year-round prevention are key to protecting your pet from this dangerous disease.
Heartworm Symptoms in Dogs
Early signs of heartworm disease may be subtle but can worsen over time. Watch for:
- Mild coughing
- Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
- Weight loss and decreased appetite
- Swollen abdomen
- Labored breathing
- In severe cases, collapse or pale gums
Prompt testing and prevention are essential for your dog’s health.
Heartworm Symptoms in Cats
Because cats are not typical hosts, heartworm disease can be harder to detect but still very dangerous. Watch for these signs:
- Coughing or asthma-like attacks
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Difficulty walking
- Fainting or seizures
- Swollen abdomen
- Sudden collapse or death
Even a small number of heartworms can lead to serious complications in cats.
Heartworm Testing for Dogs & Cats
At Hartsdale Veterinary Hospital in Hartsdale, NY, heartworm testing is an essential part of your pet’s preventive care. This typically involves a simple blood test to detect the presence of heartworm infection. Annual testing is strongly recommended for both dogs and cats to ensure early detection and effective management of the disease.
Before starting or continuing any heartworm prevention medication, our team will perform a heartworm test to confirm your pet’s health status. Early detection is key to protecting your pet from the serious effects of heartworm disease.