Don’t let parasite myths worm their way into your brain! Read on to find out the top 6 dog parasite myths and tick off the ones you were aware of.
Myth: A single product can protect my dog from all parasites
Truth: There is no single product that will provide your dog with full parasite protection. You need to use a combination of at least two products to completely protect your dog from parasites.
If you’re not sure which products are best for your pet, use our Flea, Tick and Worm Treatment Finder or speak to a friendly Petbarn or Greencross Vets team member to understand the best treatment combination for your dog.
Myth: Parasites are only a risk in summer
Truth: While fleas and ticks may thrive in warmer environments, they are very much a risk to your dog all year-round. Preventative measures should be taken no matter the season.
Myth: I can’t see worms, so my dog mustn’t have any
Truth: Adult worms are usually found in the small intestines. Sometimes worms are visible in the faeces though may not be seen due to intermittent shedding or their microscopic size.
Parasites are masters at going undetected, therefore it’s important to prevent these infections as you may not know they are there.
Myth: My puppy is too young to have contracted a parasite
Truth: Some intestinal worms can be passed from mother to puppy via the placenta or milk. Puppies should be de-wormed regularly starting from two weeks of age.
Learn more about protecting your puppy from fleas, ticks and worms here.
Myth: My dog never leaves the garden, so they can’t contract parasites
Truth: Just because your dog prefers the comforts of your home, doesn’t mean they’re not at risk. Simply eating contaminated grass or licking shoes can cause contamination.
Furthermore, we as humans can unknowingly bring parasites who’ve hitched a ride on our clothing into our homes. Parasites like fleas are very resilient and can lay dormant in our carpet and furniture for months before jumping onto a passing dog.
Safeguard your dog’s health by ensuring they’re always protected against the parasites in your neighbourhood. Not sure what parasites are present in your area? Check the parasite threat level in your suburb with PetWatch.
Myth: Humans can’t contract parasites from dogs
Truth: Humans can pick up some parasites from their dogs. Most commonly, humans will contract parasites from their dogs through contact with contaminated faeces, which seems unlikely but happens more often than we think!
Infections can also be transmitted through saliva, contact with pet toileting areas or even direct contact such as getting in close for a cuddle.
To avoid contamination:
- Wash your hands often, particularly after gardening or playing with your dog
- Pick up your dog’s poo daily
- Avoid going barefoot in the garden
- Supervise children sitting on the ground or floor
- Keep all surfaces and bathrooms clean
- Change bed linen regularly
Regular de-worming is an essential part of minimising the risk of zoonotic diseases (spread of animal disease to humans).
Whether they’re an indoor or outdoor pet or whether it’s summer or winter, the best way to avoid your dog contracting parasites is to regularly provide them with a combination of flea, tick and worming treatments for complete protection.
Treating your dog for parasites helps keep every member of your family healthy and safe from an infection so stay on top of their prevention routine with products from Petbarn.