Protecting Your Pet Starts with Prevention
Our pets depend on us to keep them safe, and one of the most important ways we can do that is by protecting them from parasites like heartworms, fleas, and ticks. These pests aren’t just a nuisance; they can spread serious diseases to pets and even to people. The good news? Preventing parasite problems is simple, safe, and far less costly than treating them after they’ve taken hold.
With year-round parasite prevention, you can give your pet the best chance at a healthy, happy life and enjoy peace of mind knowing your whole family is protected.
What Pet Owners Need to Know About Parasites
Find the answers to commonly asked questions about preventatives below:
Fleas & Ticks
These tiny pests do more than make your pet itchy. Fleas can trigger flea allergy dermatitis, causing red, inflamed, and painful skin. Ticks carry dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which can affect both pets and people. Even indoor pets can be exposed if fleas or ticks hitch a ride on shoes, clothing, or other animals.
Intestinal Parasites
Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms are more common than many pet owners realize. Pets can pick them up from contaminated soil, other animals, or even by swallowing fleas. These parasites can cause diarrhea, weight loss, or more serious health issues. Some are also zoonotic, meaning they can spread to people, especially children causing potentially serious illness.
Heartworm
Spread by mosquitoes, heartworm disease is one of the most serious threats to dogs and cats. Once infected, worms grow and live in the heart and lungs, leading to coughing, fatigue, and potentially fatal heart failure. Treatment is risky, expensive, and not always successful, but the disease is almost entirely preventable with consistent monthly medication.
Common Questions About Parasite Prevention
Do pets in Florida really need parasite prevention year-round?
Yes. Florida’s warm, humid climate means fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are active almost all year. Even when the weather cools, the risk doesn’t disappear. Keeping your pet on prevention every month is the best way to ensure they’re always protected.
Can my indoor cat or dog still get parasites?
Definitely. Fleas and ticks can hitch a ride indoors on people, other pets, or even through open windows and doors. Mosquitoes are common in Florida and can easily find their way inside, putting indoor pets at risk for heartworm disease.
What’s the difference between flea & tick prevention and heartworm prevention?
Flea and tick preventives stop external parasites that cause skin irritation and spread diseases like Lyme or Ehrlichia. Heartworm prevention protects against parasites transmitted by mosquitoes, which are especially common in Florida. Most pets need both to stay safe.
Are parasite preventives safe for puppies, kittens, and senior pets?
Yes. There are veterinary-approved preventives designed for pets of all ages and health conditions. Your veterinarian will recommend the safest, most effective option for your pet’s lifestyle here in Florida.
Why can’t I just treat parasites if I see them?
By the time you notice fleas, ticks, or heartworm symptoms, the damage may already be done. Flea infestations spread quickly, tick-borne diseases can develop silently, and heartworm treatment is dangerous and costly. Prevention is simpler, safer, and much more effective.
Protect Your Pet Today with Year-Round Prevention
Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites are a constant threat here in Florida—but the good news is, protecting your pet doesn’t have to be complicated. With safe, effective preventives recommended by your veterinarian, you can stop parasites before they ever become a problem.
Don’t wait until your pet is scratching, coughing, or showing signs of illness. Prevention is simple, affordable, and the best way to keep your furry family member healthy and happy.
