Thursday, May 14, 2009

Happy Spring!


Spring is here—and so are the bugs! Parasite prevention is important all year round for pets, and even more so when the warmer weather arrives. Now is the time for us make sure we're doing all we should to protect your pet from these 'bugs'.

Fleas can transmit some pretty nasty diseases to your pet, such as tapeworm and cat scratch fever (Bartonellosis). For many pets, the itch is merely annoying. For others, just one bite can cause an allergic reaction and ongoing skin problems.

Ticks carry Lyme disease, as well as lesser known but serious diseases, such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis. Many of these diseases can affect people as well as pets. That's why it's doubly important to protect your pet.

Heartworms are transmitted to dogs and cats through the bite of an infected mosquito. These parasites can live in your pet's lungs, blood vessels, and heart. Heartworm infection can be fatal in both dogs and cats, and since mosquitoes can survive quite well indoors, even completely indoor pets can be at risk.

Intestinal parasites, such as roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm, can infect both dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens are particularly susceptible, and some species can infect humans as well. These parasites can cause vomiting, gastric upset, and diarrhea in infected pets.

The good news is that all these internal and external parasites are easily preventable. The most effective parasite protection program is one designed around your pet's individual lifestyle and risk factors.

We carry a wide variety of products here at WVC. Contact us for more information on how to protest your pet from parasites!!

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