Preventing Parasites in Dogs

 

Parasites in Dogs pic
Parasites in Dogs
Image: petmd.com

As a board-certified small-animal veterinarian, Dr. Joel Todd Leroy Prince cares for dogs and cats in and around Elmhurst, Illinois. Dr. Joel Todd Leroy Prince believes in preventive care, which includes guarding against internal parasites.

The prevention of internal parasites requires both owner diligence and regular veterinary care. Dog owners should connect with a local veterinarian to learn what parasites are common in their geographic area and what they should do to protect their dogs.

Many veterinarians conduct a fecal check on a dog’s first appointment and each year afterward. If the animal is at a high risk of parasites, the vet may recommend that the dog regularly take a preventive medication.

At home, owners need to prevent their dogs from eating feces, a canine habit that can cause the animals to take in parasites. Owners should keep their yards free of feces and keep their dogs away from standing water, which can breed parasites that cause severe digestive upset in dogs.