At Berthoud Animal Hospital, we are committed to the health and well-being of our patients. One of the most important aspects of pet health and overall wellness is pet parasite prevention. We offer a comprehensive range of preventative measures to keep your pets protected against internal and external parasites. From fleas and ticks to heartworm and intestinal parasites, consistent pet parasite prevention and routine annual testing are imperative to your companion’s comfort and health. Our experienced veterinarians are dedicated to providing exceptional comprehensive preventative care for dogs and cats in the Berthoud and nearby Loveland, CO areas.
Intestinal Parasites
The most common intestinal parasites are roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and giardia, all of which are common in the Berthoud, CO area. Intestinal parasites are contracted by ingesting the parasite or its egg in contaminated food, water, or feces of another infected animal. In many cases, signs and symptoms of intestinal parasites are subtle and infections can go undetected for months at a time. This is why we recommend annual testing for intestinal parasites, in addition to consistent prevention for dogs and cats.
External Parasites (Fleas & Ticks)
Dogs and cats living in Colorado should be on parasite prevention year-round to protect against external parasites, such as fleas and ticks. While these parasites live outdoors, they can also be tracked inside on clothing, shoes, or other items. Infestations of these external parasites cause symptoms such as itching, hair loss, allergies, anemia, and skin infection. They can also transmit other parasites, like tapeworms, and more serious diseases, such as Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Lyme disease.
Heartworm FAQs
We believe all pet owners should be aware of heartworm disease, the symptoms, and how to protect your pet from these potentially fatal parasites.
What is heartworm disease?
Heartworms are a type of parasitic roundworm that travel through the bloodstream and reside in the right side of the heart. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by heartworms residing in the body.
How is heartworm disease spread?
Mosquitoes are carriers and transmitters of heartworms. Not all mosquitoes carry heartworms, but it is impossible to detect which ones have bitten a heartworm positive animal. A mosquito carrier will transmit the parasite from one infected animal to another. Luckily, though, heartworms are not contagious between animals, and can only be transmitted by mosquitos.
Are dogs and cats both susceptible to heartworm disease?
Yes, both dogs and cats are susceptible to heartworm disease.
What are the signs of heartworm in dogs and cats?
Heartworm disease in dogs and cats can be almost undetectable in the early stages. In most cases, cats do not usually show any signs until the disease has become extremely advanced.
Signs in Dogs:
- Mild cough
- Reluctance to exercise
- Fatigue after moderate activity
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
Signs in Cats:
- Coughing
- Asthma attacks
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Sudden death
How is heartworm diagnosed?
Heartworm disease can be diagnosed in a number of different ways, but most often through a blood test. At your pet’s annual exam, the veterinarian will recommend a simple blood test that evaluates for a toxin that stimulates an immune response if your pet is infected.
Diagnosis can also be done through a full blood evaluation under a microscope, or through other tools such as radiographs, or echocardiograms.
How can pet owners protect our pets from heartworm?
Consistent pet parasite prevention against heartworm is the most effective form of protection against heartworm disease. Other methods include routine testing and keeping your pet away from mosquito-infested areas, such as stagnant water.
Are humans susceptible to heartworm disease?
No, humans are not susceptible to heartworm disease as the parasites cannot survive in the human bloodstream.
What do you know about parasites?
