Parasite Control

Heartworm has been diagnosed in dogs in all 50 states. It is very common; it has a virtual 100% prevalence rate in unprotected dogs living in highly endemic areas. Heartworm (Dirofilaria Immitis), is transmitted by mosquitoes. The mosquito injects microscopic larvae, which grows into an adult worm six to eighteen inches long inside the heart of the affected dog.

The worms can cause mild symptoms, such as coughing, but with time, more severe symptoms such as congestive heart failure, weight loss, fluid build up in the abdomen, fainting spells, anemia, collapse, and death usually occur. Luckily, medication can prevent heartworm if given as directed. There are oral medications which need to be given monthly, and which also help protect against some intestinal parasites.

The American Heartworm Society says it is important to check all dogs annually y doing a blood test, even dogs that have been on preventative should be tested. Many people are not totally compliant about giving the medication on time, and no medication is perfect. If a dog has heartworms and it is given a dose of preventative, there can be a reaction that is detrimental to the dog, even deadly. Another important factor is the de-worming of intestinal parasites. At Popish Veterinary clinic we sell and recommend Interceptor. Interceptor, along with being a heartworm preventative, de-worms against the intestinal worms-

Roundworms, Hookworms, and Whipworms. These intestinal parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can spread to people as well. We need to keep our pets parasite free, not only for their health, but for ours as well.

Heartworms were once thought to be rare in cats. Now we know the incidence is anywhere from 10% to 50% of the canine rate. Heartworm disease in cats is different than in dogs. Cats usually test negative on the routine blood test done in the hospital, the worms are smaller and usually do not produce microfilaria which are like baby heartworms that circulate in the bloodstream. Veterinarians have to do different tests, sometimes more than one, to diagnose heartworms in cats. The symptoms in cats are different also. Cats usually have asthma signs or cough, even vomit. Cats can die acutely.

The treatment for adult heartworms in dogs is expensive and potentially harmful to the dog. This is why it is much better to prevent them in the first place. There is not a treatment for adult heartworms in cats. Many veterinarians are now recommending monthly heartworm preventative in cats also.

Fleas and Ticks are present in Wyoming but to a lesser degree than other states.  In general, the pet that is inside and goes out to play in the back yard or park tend not to have a flea or tick problem.  If flea and tick presence is in question at places outside the pets normal environment, then use of a flea and tick product may be indicated. 

Whatever the environment, pet owners should be aware and watchful for flea and tick presence.  There are diseases that are spread by fleas (Plague, Tapeworms) and ticks (Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever).  Fleas and ticks need to bite your pet first for the flea and tick medication to work.  During this time the disease they carry can be transferred. 

Common treatments include "spot ons", sprays, and collars.  We recommend, and have had success with, the topical "spot on" treatment Frontline Plus.  Sprays are short term and the effectiveness of a collar along with it's unpleasant smell are something to consider.