Turner Veterinary Clinic News
Keeping Pets Parasite Free Helps People, Too!
While parasite prevention is essential for your pet’s health, it can also play a critical role in keeping you and your family safe. Some of the parasites that affect pets can be spread to people.
In this article, we’ll discuss which parasites could be a risk to you and how to keep you and your pets parasite free.
Zoonotic Parasites
While many parasites can affect pets, zoonotic parasites can be transmitted from pets to people. Below are a few of the most common zoonotic parasites and what you need to know about them.
- Tapeworms
The most common zoonotic tapeworm is known as Dipylidium and is found in both dogs and cats. While you can not get this tapeworm directly from your pet, it can be spread by fleas. While it may seem unlikely that you would eat a flea, it can happen accidentally and is most commonly seen in children.
- Hookworms
Hookworms are another intestinal parasite that you can contract from your pet. Hookworm eggs can be excreted in your pet’s feces and live in the soil for long periods of time. When your skin comes in contact with contaminated feces or soil, the hookworm burrows into your skin. The infected area may become red and is often quite itchy.
- Toxoplasma
Toxoplasma is an intestinal parasite that is spread to humans through contact with cat feces. Symptoms of toxoplasma infection in people can vary but are usually mild and resemble the flu. However, pregnant women who become infected with Toxoplasma can spread the infection to their unborn children.
Keeping Your Pets Parasite Free
One of the most critical steps in keeping you and your pets safe is parasite prevention. Parasite prevention comes in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and injectables. Some preventatives can protect your pet from multiple parasites. However, it’s essential to ensure your pet is fully protected from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and internal parasites.
If you have questions about your pet’s level of protection, our team is happy to provide recommendations and help make sure your pet is adequately protected.
In addition to preventative care, parasite testing is also critical. Fecal tests can detect intestinal parasites and are recommended during your pet’s annual wellness exam. You should also monitor your pet for any concerning symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, or excessive itch.
Reducing Your Risk
While keeping your pet parasite-free is critical, some additional measures can help reduce your risk. Always wash your hands before eating and after handling your pet. When your pet uses the bathroom, clean it up as soon as possible and always dispose of the waste properly.
Because of the increased health risks associated with Toxoplasma infection during pregnancy, the CDC recommends that pregnant women avoid cleaning their cat’s litter box when possible. Instead, ask another family member to help you with the task. If this is not possible, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly when you are done.
Final Thoughts
Not only can parasite prevention protect your pet, but it can also help you! In addition to using parasite prevention, remember to be careful when cleaning up after your pet and always practice good hygiene.
If you have additional questions about keeping your pet parasite free, please give us a call. We are happy to set up an appointment to check your pet for parasites and discuss their preventative care.
Categories
Recent Posts
Sunshine, open windows, and the promise of new adventures—summer road trips are hard to resist. And if you’re like many pet parents, there’s no way you're leaving your four-legged friend behind. Whether you're headed to a cabin up north, the lake for the weekend, or on a cross-country tour, traveling with pets takes some extra planning. But with a little prep, your journey can be just as smooth for them as it is for you.
Before you gas up the car and grab the treats, here’s what you need to know to help your pet stay healthy, safe, and comfortable on the road.
Think heartworm is just a summertime issue? Or that your indoor cat is safe from it? You're not alone—many pet owners have heard (and believed) myths about heartworm disease. But the truth is, this serious and potentially deadly condition affects pets in every state and can impact even those who never leave the house.
Let’s clear up the confusion and give you the real facts about heartworm—so you can protect your furry family members with confidence.
February is here, and love is in the air! But while you're showering your loved ones with chocolate, flowers and cards, don’t forget the furry members of your family. This month is National Pet Dental Health Month and a perfect time to prioritize your pet's dental health. Just like us, pets can develop dental problems that impact their overall health and happiness.
Proper dental care can improve your pet’s quality of life and even extend their lifespan. Here, we’ll share essential tips to ensure your pet’s teeth stay healthy and strong.
From October 13-19, 2024, we join veterinary clinics nationwide in celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week! These incredible individuals are the backbone of our clinic, working tirelessly to ensure every pet receives the care they need. If you’ve ever wondered just how our vet techs make a difference in the life of your pet, we’re here to shed some light on their remarkable work.
As a veterinary team, one of the most important conversations we have with pet parents is about pain. Unlike us, our pets can’t simply tell us when something hurts. They often mask their discomfort, making it difficult to recognize the early signs of pain. Whether your pet is growing older or experiencing an acute injury, understanding the subtle indicators of pain is one of the best things you can do as a pet owner to facilitate your pet’s overall wellbeing.