Pet Parasite Prevention in Bellevue, WA
The thought of your pet being infested with parasites is unsettling, and it’s also a medical issue that can have serious consequences if not prevented or treated. At Animal Wellness and Rehab Center, we emphasize year-round parasite prevention to protect your dog or cat from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. Pets can be very susceptible to certain parasites depending on their age, lifestyle, and our Pacific Northwest climate, and some parasites can even spread to people.
Common Parasites That Affect Pets
- Fleas cause itching, skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, and can transmit tapeworms
- Ticks can spread serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis
- Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and can damage the heart and lungs
- Intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms can cause digestive upset and weight loss
- Giardia and other protozoa can cause diarrhea, especially in young pets
Why Year-Round Prevention Matters
Pets that are not protected often develop parasites, leading to serious problems for them and their owners. Even in the mild winters of western Washington, fleas can survive indoors and ticks remain active on warmer days. Consistent prevention is far easier, safer, and more affordable than treating an infestation or a heartworm infection.
Personalized Prevention Plans
We recommend a parasite prevention plan based on your pet’s lifestyle, travel, and health history. Routine fecal testing and heartworm screening in our in-house laboratory help us catch problems early. We carry a range of preventatives in our pharmacy, and our team is happy to discuss options for pet owners who prefer a more natural approach as part of our holistic care. Parasite prevention is a key part of preventative care and puppy and kitten care.
Parasite Prevention FAQs
Does my pet need parasite prevention all year?
Yes. Fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites can be active year-round, so continuous prevention offers the best protection.
Can indoor pets get parasites?
Yes. Fleas, mosquitoes, and other parasites can enter the home on people, other pets, or through open doors and windows.
How often should my pet be tested for parasites?
We generally recommend an annual fecal test and heartworm test for dogs, with more frequent testing for puppies, kittens, and high-risk pets.
Can pet parasites spread to people?
Some parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and certain tick-borne diseases, can affect people. Prevention protects your whole family.
Do you offer natural parasite prevention options?
We’re happy to discuss your preferences and help you choose a safe, effective prevention plan that fits your pet’s needs.
What are the signs of fleas on my pet?
Common signs include scratching, biting at the skin, hair loss, red bumps, and small black specks known as flea dirt in the coat.
Protect Your Pet From Parasites
Keep your pet and family safe year-round. Call Animal Wellness and Rehab Center at (425) 455-8900 or request an appointment online.