Parasite Control
Fleas, ticks and worms are common in the UK, and effective, regular prevention is far easier — and kinder to your pet — than treating an established infestation or the diseases parasites can carry.
Fleas
Fleas can cause itching, skin irritation and, in some pets, an allergic reaction (flea allergy dermatitis) from just a single bite.
They can also transmit tapeworm and, in large numbers, cause anaemia in young or small animals.
A flea infestation in the home can be difficult to fully clear, since eggs and larvae can survive in carpets and bedding for months — prevention is far easier than a cure.
Year-round prevention is recommended, since fleas can survive indoors even in winter.
Ticks
Ticks are increasingly common across the UK, including in gardens and local countryside, not just on long country walks.
They can transmit diseases including Lyme disease and, less commonly in the UK, babesiosis.
Check your pet after walks, particularly around the head, ears, neck and armpits.
If you find a tick, it's best removed promptly and correctly using a tick removal tool, to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded — we're happy to show you how, or remove one for you.
Roundworms and Tapeworms
Roundworms are common, particularly in puppies and kittens, and can be passed from mother to offspring before birth or through milk.
Roundworms can pose a small risk to human health (particularly children), making regular worming an important public health measure as well as a pet health one.
Tapeworm is typically acquired through fleas or hunting/scavenging, so flea control and worming often go hand in hand.
Lungworm
Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) is spread via slugs and snails, including small amounts accidentally ingested on grass, toys or water bowls left outside.
It can cause serious, sometimes fatal, disease affecting breathing and blood clotting.
Standard wormers do not all cover lungworm — a specific product is needed, so it's worth checking your current prevention actually includes it.
Our recommended approach
Because no single product covers every parasite, and needs vary depending on lifestyle (for example, whether your pet goes abroad, hunts, or has contact with other animals), we tailor a prevention plan for each pet, which may include:
Monthly or seasonal flea and tick prevention
Regular worming, including lungworm cover where appropriate
Additional precautions for pets travelling abroad
Still have questions?
If you're not sure your current parasite prevention is adequate, or would like a tailored plan for your pet, please contact us on 01797 252321.