Fleas, Ticks and Heartworm: Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats in Middle Sackville

Quick answer: The best way to protect your dog or cat from fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites is a prevention plan built around your pet's lifestyle and exposure risks. At Middle Sackville Veterinary Care Centre, our veterinarians create that plan during your pet's wellness visit and combine it with vaccinations to help prevent disease before it starts.

Parasites are more than a nuisance. Fleas and mites can cause uncomfortable skin problems, and heartworm disease is one of the conditions that can damage your pet's heart. Here is how to spot the signs and how our team helps keep parasites away.

Signs your pet may have parasites

Skin and coat signs. Skin problems in dogs and cats can be caused by parasites such as fleas and mites. Watch for:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Bare patches
• Scabs or scaling on the skin
• Redness or inflammation

If you notice these signs, contact us promptly. Our guide to itchy skin and allergies in dogs and cats covers other causes too.

Heart and breathing signs. Heartworm disease is one of the causes of heart disease in pets. Rapid breathing, coughing, a decrease in appetite, tiring easily, weakness or difficulty exercising are reasons to contact us right away. Learn more about heart disease warning signs.

How we check for parasites

In many cases, our veterinarians can identify the cause of a skin problem through a detailed physical exam. When more information is needed, we may recommend:

• Skin scraping to detect parasites that may be causing skin irritation
• Blood work to look for underlying infections or other conditions
• Urinalysis to evaluate your pet's overall health
• Heart testing such as x-rays, an electrocardiogram (ECG) or ultrasound when heart disease is suspected

Our on-site laboratory provides rapid results so treatment can start without delay. Learn more about our diagnostic services and dermatology care.

How to build a parasite prevention plan for your pet

Step 1: Book a wellness visit. During your pet's wellness exam, we discuss their lifestyle, potential exposure risks and overall health.

Step 2: Get a plan that fits your pet. Every pet is different. Our veterinarians recommend parasite control for fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites based on your pet's needs.

Step 3: Pair it with vaccinations. Preventive care and vaccinations together form the foundation of a proactive approach to your pet's health. Read our vaccination guide to learn more.

Step 4: Stay on schedule. Regular checkups let us monitor your pet's health, adjust the plan as their needs change and answer your questions between visits.

Need products for your plan? Ask our team or browse our products and supplies.

Frequently asked questions about pet parasites

Can fleas cause my pet's itchy skin?

Yes. Infestations by parasites such as fleas and mites are among the causes of skin problems in dogs and cats, along with allergies, infections and hormonal disorders. An exam helps us find the true cause.

Can parasites affect my pet's heart?

Yes. Heartworm disease is one of the conditions that can lead to heart disease in pets. Parasite prevention that includes heartworm protection is part of the preventive care we offer.

Does my indoor cat need parasite prevention?

Every pet's risk is different. We look at your pet's lifestyle and exposure risks during their wellness visit and recommend a plan that fits.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Eligible clients can apply for Humm financing online in a few minutes and receive a credit decision in as little as 7 minutes. Humm offers financing for veterinary care of up to $30,000, including 6- and 12-month zero-interest payment plans on eligible purchases. A soft credit check is required.

Book a parasite prevention visit in Middle Sackville

Ready to protect your pet from fleas, ticks and heartworm? Request an appointment online or call us at (902) 864-2882. Learn more about our wellness care and vaccination services, or visit our new clients page if you are new to the clinic.

Middle Sackville Veterinary Care Centre is a veterinary-owned, CVMA- and NSVMA-accredited animal hospital at 1622 Sackville Drive, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3A8. This article is general information and is not a substitute for an examination of your pet by a veterinarian.