Intestinal Parasite

In the past, “Heartworm” preventives were typically only recommended  during the warm months of the year (May-November). That continues to be the  recommendation for mosquito-transmitted parasites today. But did you know that  all current monthly “heartworm” products also prevent our most common  intestinal parasites?

Intestinal pet parasites such as roundworms and  hookworms are transmissible to people. Parasites that can be shared between  humans and animals are called “zoonotic” parasites. People, especially  children, can become infected by contacting their pets feces unintentionally.  An infected pet can shed thousands of parasite eggs into their environment,  “seeding” their own yard, and also community parks and other public areas.  Pets become infected themselves by direct contact with infected pets or  ingestion of contaminated materials (shared toys, soiled grass, direct  ingestion of fecal matter). A very high percentage of puppies and kittens have  intestinal worms.  Young children are especially at risk as they play  with these new pets.

How common are zoonotic infections? Thankfully  they are rare. But, while the number is low, many of these infections can be  devastating, resulting in significant illness. If your pet is diagnosed with  intestinal parasites, make sure everyone uses good hygiene by washing hands  after contact with infected pets.

While we can’t easily prevent  exposure with contaminated pets or materials, we can minimize parasites in our  pets and protect our human family by worming pets regularly. Using  broad-spectrum parasite preventatives on a monthly basis year round, is the  best way to protect all family members. Even in Northern Michigan, year-round  monthly parasite prevention is recommended by the Center for Disease Control  (CDC), Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), American Heartworm  Society,  the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the  American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), along with the doctors and staff  at Oakwood Veterinary Hospital. Ask our staff for more information or visit  the websites of the above organizations.

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