Get Your Pet Ready for the Return of Parasites during Spring in Carol Stream

Many creatures come to life in the spring, and most of the time, the burst of life is a glorious thing to behold. Alas, this is also the time of reawakening for parasites. Mosquitos come with the first warm weather, and with them, heartworms arrive. Hookworms, roundworms, and other such parasites that were hibernating in the ground wake up too, presenting dangers for animals that come in contact with them as they walk along.

The Dangers of Internal Parasites

Most internal parasites that affect pets in Carol Stream, IL are intestinal worms. These live in the intestines, but they don't directly survive from the food your pet eats. Instead, they suck the blood out of the intestinal walls. Symptoms include a general deterioration of your pet's health, weakness, anemia, and intestinal distress. Severe cases can even cause death. These parasites can infect both dogs and cats.

Heartworms are unique in their method of infestation and where they reside in the body. They are spread by mosquito bites, and as their name implies, the heart is one of their favorite organs to infest. A little-known fact is that they often infest the lungs as well. In both cases, they cause debilitation, and in severe cases, death. Many heartworm-related deaths are caused by the simple presence of so many worms that blood flow is stopped. Heartworm is almost always a dog's problem. They are rarely successful at infesting cats.

Preventing Infestations

Fortunately, it's far easier to accomplish effective parasite prevention than it once was. Here at Carol Stream Animal Hospital in Carol Stream, IL, we prescribe long-lasting medications that prevent heartworm and other intestinal parasites. This wide-spectrum preventives typically only need to be given once a month or less. They are available by prescription only since the specific medication and dosage need to be calibrated to species, breed, and size.

Contact Us Today

To get your dog or cat ready for the return of parasites in spring, just make an appointment with us. Call us today at (630) 462-7888.