Monthly Focus – Parasite Awareness


Spring is here in Squamish, and with the warmer weather we routinely see a spike in the number of animals affected by both external and internal parasites.

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EXTERNAL PARASITES
Common external parasites of dogs and cats include:
• fleas
• ticks
• lice
• mites

Ticks and fleas are visible with the naked eye, but can easily go unnoticed in animals with long coats. Ticks in the Squamish area have the ability to carry and transmit Lyme Disease.  Fleas can be very prolific infesting your pets coat as well as your home and can also be carriers of tapeworms. Mites and lice can cause itchy or irritated skin.

INTERNAL PARASITES
Internal parasites found in the Squamish area include:
• roundworm
• hookworm
• whipworm
• tapeworm
• giardia

Internal parasites have the ability to cause gastro-intestinal problems in our pets and some pose a public health risk as they can be transmitted to people. Children are at higher risk for contracting internal parasites as they are transmitted by the fecal oral route.

Parasites are treatable and, in most cases, problems can be avoided with routine preventative parasite control using a variety of safe and effective products carried at Garibaldi Veterinary Hospital.

All of our pets are at some risk for internal and external parasites.
BOOK ONLINE or call us at 604-898-9089 to discuss strategies for protecting your pet (and you) from parasite infestation.

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“I brought Indy to Dr. Honey and was immediately impressed by his knowledge and his friendly, enthusiastic nature. Dr. Honey’s love for animals is obvious, and I have absolute faith in his professionalism. I also have respect for Dr. Honey’s involvement in the Squamish community. He has a passion for mountain culture and has deep roots in this town. It is reassuring to know Dr. Honey will always be here and that he has known my dogs throughout their lives.”
– Mark S

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