Parasite Prevention for Cats & Dogs in Warrenville, IL

Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms can be more than just a nuisance—they can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening health issues for your pet. That's why parasite prevention is a key component of our canine and feline wellness care programs.

We work closely with you to create a tailored parasite prevention plan for your pet, keeping in mind their unique lifestyle and environment. Whether your pet is a curious outdoor adventurer or a homebody, we have the right tools and treatments to safeguard them from harmful parasites year-round.

Defend your pet from harmful parasitic infections! Give us a call at (630) 393-1131 or request an appointment online to discuss parasite prevention options.

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Parasite Prevention Pill

Heartworm Disease

Heartworms are a dangerous parasite that grow and live inside the heart and pulmonary artery. These worms are primarily found in dogs but can also affect cats. They are transmitted through mosquito bites, which makes heartworm prevention essential for all pets.

Fleas

Fleas are more than just an annoying pest—they can lead to allergic reactions, anemia, and the transmission of other parasites such as tapeworms. A comprehensive flea control plan is essential to ensure your pet stays comfortable and safe.

Flea Prevention

At Warrenville Grove Animal Hospital, we offer personalized flea prevention programs based on your pet’s needs and environment. Our team will review the best ways to control fleas both on your pet and within your home and yard. This multimodal approach ensures that fleas are kept under control in all areas of your pet’s life.

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Ticks

Ticks can transmit several dangerous diseases, including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. In recent years, Lyme disease has become more common in our area, and it is important to protect your dog from tick bites.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is spread through the bite of a black-legged, or deer, tick. An infected tick must remain attached for 24-48 hours to transmit the bacterium, so prompt removal is key to preventing Lyme disease in you or your dog.

If your dog becomes infected, they can develop fever, lameness, and swollen joints. Oftentimes, lameness shifts from leg to leg and can wax and wane. Some dogs may also experience kidney failure if the infection is left untreated.

Anaplasmosis & Ehrlichiosis

These rickettsial diseases can be transmitted by various tick species, potentially resulting in a co-infection. Dogs infected with anaplasmosis or ehrlichiosis may develop signs similar to Lyme disease, such as fever, lameness, and muscle pain. However, they can also experience bleeding issues, gastrointestinal problems, and other illness.

Infected dogs may exhibit no symptoms, rapidly develop acute signs, or linger in a chronic infection, so appropriate treatment is important for preventing long-term complications.

Year-Round Tick Prevention

The most effective way to prevent Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and other tick-borne illnesses is through tick control. We offer a variety of tick preventives that will help protect your pet from tick bites. For added protection, we also recommend vaccinating your dog against Lyme disease, especially in early spring before tick season begins. While the vaccine is not a guarantee against infection, it is an important tool in your pet's defense.

Intestinal Worms

Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms, are common in both cats and dogs, particularly in young pets. Many intestinal parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted between pets and people, so regularly deworming your pet also helps protect you from infection.

Intestinal Worm Symptoms

If your pet has intestinal worms, they may experience a wide range of symptoms that can include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Visible worms in the stool or on their fur
  • Poor coat condition
  • Failure to thrive
  • Weight loss
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration
  • Anemia

Deworming and Prevention

Regular deworming is important for puppies and kittens, who are often born with roundworms or easily infected with other parasites, and for any pet who spends time outdoors. Fecal exams allow us to identify intestinal worms that may have infected your pet and provide effective treatments. However, many heartworm preventives also have deworming properties, so regular heartworm prevention administration can also protect your pet from intestinal parasites.

Don’t wait until parasites make your pet sick. Reach out to us today at (630) 393-1131 to schedule a consultation and ensure your four-legged friend is protected from harmful pests.

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