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Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and intestinal parasites are unpleasant realities of pet ownership in the Grass Valley area and require regular testing and management to keep your pet healthy.

Fleas
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments like ours and reproduce rapidly once established. Flea saliva elicits a strong allergic response that can lead to hot spots and skin infections which can be both time consuming and costly to eradicate. Prevention is key and your veterinarian may recommend the use of oral or topical preventatives as part of your pet’s routine.

Ticks
Ticks are most common in wooded or grassy areas and can transmit a variety of diseases such as Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever to both pets and people. There are effective medications that are easily given to your pets to prevent ticks.

Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are a common pest here in Grass Valley. While a nuisance to humans, they can also transmit heartworm disease to your pets which can be deadly and is difficult and expensive to treat. Because of the prevalence in our area, your vet is likely to recommend a monthly heartworm preventative for your pet.

Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites are usually acquired when a pet inadvertently ingests eggs or spores from contaminated soil, water, feces or food. These parasites can make your pet very ill with symptoms such as malnutrition, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting and anemia and may even cause significant health concerns for your family, too. These parasites are easily prevented with regular medication.

Routine screening and administration of preventative medications are essential and cost effective ways to ensure your pet stays as healthy as possible, regardless of age or lifestyle.