As World Parasite Awareness Day falls in March, global animal health company, Zoetis encourgares pet owners to stay ahead of their pet’s wellbeing as it can be beneficial for the whole household.
Dr Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Director: Companion Animals for global animal health company, Zoetis South Africa says it is often easy to forget something when it is out of sight. “While pet owners may notice scratching from fleas or gastrointestinal upset from some intestinal worms, many parasites can go undetected.”
It is important to note that some “parasites – and the infections they can carry – can also affect people.” Therefore, preventative measures need to be in place before your pet has worms, ticks, fleas or other parasites.
Dr Dent offers the following tips for pet owners (As provided):
• Be proactive: “Don’t wait to treat parasites reactively. Prevention is key,” says Dr Dent. “Just because your pet isn’t showing visible signs, that doesn’t mean they’re not carrying parasites – putting their health at risk.” For example, ticks can transmit a range of diseases to dogs. Different parasites are more common in different areas, and this can change with shifts in climate and migration patterns. Speak to your veterinarian about putting a parasite prevention plan in place specific to the current risks in your area.
• Parasite prevention is a year-round concern: World Parasite Awareness Day falls on 20 March, coinciding with the start of spring in the northern hemisphere. But that doesn’t mean South African pet owners should let their guard down at this time of year. “Parasite prevention should be a year-round priority,” says Dr Dent. “Spring and summer tend to be the months when we start thinking about ticks and insects but being proactive during the cooler months is equally important.”
• Parasites are everywhere: Even if you live in an urban area, your cat or dog can still be at risk of picking up parasites. “Even in clean homes and urban areas, pets can still be exposed to parasites,” says Dr Dent. “Pets spend time in the garden, they eat things in the park that they’re not supposed to, they interact with other animals at dog parks and catteries. All of these are opportunities to pick up parasites.” Once parasites have taken hold, they tend to multiply quickly. A single female flea can lay dozens of eggs per day, which can quickly lead to a home infestation if not controlled.
• Prevention is personal: Parasite prevention is not one-size-fits-all. Your veterinarian will recommend a prevention plan that takes your pet’s personal circumstances into account – including living conditions, local risks, age, habits and other individual needs.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
