Parasite Prevention

  

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes aren’t just annoying. They carry diseases that can seriously harm your furry pal! Read on as a Louisville, KY vet discusses parasites, and offers tips on keeping Fluffy and Fido safe.

Parasites Can Cause:

• Skin infections and allergic reactions from flea bites
  
• Anemia and weakness in young or small pets from flea infestations
  
• Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever from tick bites
  
• Heartworm disease, which affects the lungs and heart and is often fatal if untreated
  

These aren’t rare problems—they’re very real risks that pets deal with every day. Prevention isn’t just a suggestion—it’s essential.

Year-Round Flea and Tick Prevention

Contrary to what many pet owners believe, flea and tick season doesn’t end in winter.

Here’s Why Consistent Protection Is Crucial:

• Fleas can live indoors and breed all year round in carpets and furniture
  
• Ticks are active on mild winter days, which are common in Pasadena
  
• Skipping just one month of prevention can lead to an infestation
  

At our veterinary clinic, we offer safe, vet-approved flea and tick preventatives in chewable, topical, and collar form. Many over-the-counter products don’t offer the same reliability, so we always recommend checking with your veterinarian first.

Heartworm Protection for Pets 

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. Once infected, the worms grow inside your dog’s heart and lungs, leading to coughing, fatigue, and potentially heart failure. 

Cats can get heartworms too, and while it’s less common, it can be just as dangerous.

Key Facts About Heartworms:

• It only takes one mosquito bite to infect your pet
  
• Dogs need monthly prevention and yearly heartworm tests
  
• Treatment is costly, lengthy, and risky—but prevention is simple and safe
  

Our Louisville, KY animal hospital offers heartworm prevention in both pill and injectable form. If your pet hasn’t been tested in the last year, we’ll do a quick blood test before starting (or restarting) protection.

How to Build a Parasite Prevention Plan

Every pet’s lifestyle is different. Indoor cats have different needs than dogs who hike, swim, and explore outdoors. That’s why our Louisville, KY vets tailor prevention plans based on your pet’s habits, health history, and risk level.

We’ll Help You:

• Choose the best products for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
  
• Set up a consistent monthly schedule that’s easy to follow
  
• Track your pet’s annual testing and renewal dates
  

Preventive care saves money, protects health, and gives you peace of mind. It’s one of the smartest things you can do for your furry companion.

FAQ

Do indoor pets really need parasite prevention?

Yes. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can get into your home through screens, open doors, and even your clothes. Indoor pets aren’t immune to bites or infestations.

What’s the best flea and tick prevention?

The best product depends on your pet’s age, size, and health. We recommend vet-prescribed preventatives over store-bought options for safety and effectiveness.

How often does my pet need heartworm prevention?

Dogs need monthly protection year-round and a heartworm test once a year. Even one missed dose can leave a window for infection.

Protect Your Pet Before the Bite

Parasite prevention might not be flashy—but it’s one of the most important things you can do as a pet parent. Don’t wait until fleas invade or a mosquito brings in something worse. Our team at Evergreen Animal Hospital is ready to help keep your furry friend protected and thriving.

Contact our Louisville, KY animal clinic

And if you’re searching for a great vet in the area, you could type “great veterinarian near me”… or just give us a call! You can also visit our services page here to learn more about who we are and what we do. 

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your Louisville, KY veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.