Parasite Prevention and Treatment

The best way to protect your pet from fleas and ticks is to use a preventive anti-parasite treatment. Fleas and ticks can cause a great deal of discomfort to our furry friends, in addition to potentially transmitting bacteria and diseases that can make them very ill.

Fleas:

Fleas are small insects that jump from one animal to another through contact. These insects feed on the host animal’s blood, and their bites often cause a great deal of itching. A significant flea infestation can therefore lead to fur loss, bald patches and scabbing as well as anemia. The saliva that the fleas inject when biting can also cause an allergic reaction and may contain bacteria or the eggs of parasitic worms, which can make your pet very ill.

Fleas are clearly not something you want on your pet. That’s why we recommend opting for a preventive treatment. Talk to your vet to find out which preventive treatment is best for your pet.

Ticks:

Ticks are becoming increasingly common in Quebec—even in more urban areas like Saint-Lambert. They tend to live in wooded areas, tall grass, and wetlands. They cling onto an animal’s coat before attaching themselves to the skin to feed off the blood. Ticks are carriers of serious diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis. The most common signs of infection include limping, fever, swollen joints, kidney problems and loss of appetite.

As in the case of fleas, it is preferable to use a preventive anti-parasite treatment to ensure your pet does not become prey to ticks. Preventive anti-tick treatments come in different forms, including treats and topical fluids to be applied to your pet’s coat. Talk to your vet to find out which preventive treatment is best for your pet.