Parasite Control
Strategic deworming: Reducing the risk to pets and people.
What is strategic deworming?
Strategic deworming consists of treating your pet for removal of parasitic worms such as hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms at regular intervals with medicines that are specifically designed to prevent parasitic disease and the shedding of parasite eggs in your yard and home. It is also important to have your pet's feces analyzed periodically to determine what type of parasites may be infecting your pet.
Why is regular and more frequent deworming more beneficial to my pet?
Strategic deworming helps prevent the development of infections in your pet by treating before parasite damage occurs. This is especially important for very young puppies and kittens, because they can be seriously harmed if parasites are left untreated. In addition, many parasites can go undetected making diagnosis difficult; especially in adult dogs and cats.
Are there any other reasons strategic deworming is best for my pet?
Definitely strategic deworming prevents the shedding of parasite eggs by your pet. These eggs contaminate the environment, and can later reinfect your pet and may infect your family.
How do humans get parasites from animals?
Humans contract zoonotic parasites by accidentally ingesting their eggs or larvae which contaminate the environment or from close contact with contaminated pets. People become infected via...
- Putting contaminated objects or hands in their mouths
- Eating fruits or vegetables without washing them thoroughly
- Playing in sandboxes or soil contaminated by animal feces
- Handling animals without washing hands afterwards
- Being in close contact with infected animals
- Accidentally ingesting a flea (carrying parasite larvae)
Who is most suseptible to parasitic infections?
- Young children
- People with puppies or kittens in the household
- People who don't wash their hands thoroughly
- People who work in close contact with animals
- People whose immune systems are compromised
- Pet owners who do not routinely deworm their animals
How can you keep your pet from being exposed to parasites?
Short of sealing your pet in a plastic bubble, you can't. That's why the practice of strategic deworming is so important. You should consult your veterinarian for more details and establish an appropriate deworming schedule for your pet.
