Flea and Heartworm Preventatives

It’s that time of year….again!

FLEA AND HEARTWORM PREVENTATIVES

Fleas are a very common external parasite that can affect dogs and cats year-round in San Diego.  Flea Allergic Dermatitis (FAD) is the most common veterinary dermatologic condition in the world!  Signs include scratching, chewing, licking, and biting.  Hair loss, reddened skin, and sores are common.  Many dogs and cats that are allergic to the bite of a flea have very few fleas on them because their excessive grooming activity removes the flea.

Ingestion of fleas by your pet can lead to intestinal tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum) infestation.

Heartworm is now considered endemic to San Diego County.  Heartworms are transmitted to dogs and cats through mosquito bites.  The worms develop in the bloodstream and eventually lodge in the heart where they cause extensive damage.  The good news is such a devastating disease is 100% preventable.

We recommend year-round flea control and heartworm prevention products for all pets in your household.  For dogs, a chewable once-a-month flea, heartworm, and intestinal worm preventative (Trifexis) is now available. For cats, we recommend a topical product (Revolution) that prevents heartworm disease, intestinal worms, and also controls fleas.

In addition to receiving monthly a monthly preventative product, all dogs should be tested annually for heartworm disease.  Dogs can have a blood test for heartworm disease at our on-site laboratory at Snug.  We are offering FREE HEARTWORM TESTING with the purchase of a 12-month supply of any heartworm preventative product!

Please contact a veterinary staff member if you have any questions about fleas, heartworm disease, intestinal parasites, or any of our preventative products.