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FLEAS AND TICKS AND ROUNDWORMS, OH MY! 4 Common Myths About Pet Parasites
THAT LINCOLN)
For the most part, I would say Dr. Clark has pretty good instincts, though there’s one area we disagree on: my groovy haircut. There’s a tuft of hair
on the top of my head that sticks straight up in the air. Because Dr. Clark has no taste, he’s tried to cut it off more than once. Fortunately, the rest of the family loves it, so my hair gets to stay. Besides disagreeing about my hair, I love living with Dr. Clark and the family. We always have so much fun. Have you ever been fishing? It’s the best! Swimming is the best too. Oh, and eating socks, lots and lots of socks. I love getting into mischief with Teton. If I’m being honest, though, my very favorite thing is playing ball. Teton isn’t that interested in fetch, but I could chase the ball around all day. It doesn’t matter how tired I get, I’m always ready to bring the ball back and chase it again. That’s all for now. I hope you all have a great spring and find plenty of time to play fetch! –Lincoln
Have you ever been sick at home and had your dog or cat crawl up to sleep next to you? It’s comforting and, because most illnesses don’t spread between humans and animals, you don’t have to worry about your dog catching your cold. Unfortunately, pet owners do have to worry about their animals bringing harmful parasites into the house. Roundworms, hookworms, ticks, and fleas are just a few unpleasant creatures that can hitch a ride on your dog or cat and infect the rest of your family. Myth: Parasites are a summer problem. Truth: It’s possible for active pets that spend time outdoors to contract parasites year-round. Parasite eggs can survive in the soil for years before finding a host. If waste from another animal contains parasite eggs, those eggs can live through our severe winters and still be on the ground in spring, waiting to infect your pets the next time they’re outside. Truth: Too often, pet owners ignore the warning signs of parasites because they’re looking for the wrong red flag. Very rarely are parasites visible in animal waste. Adult roundworms, hookworms, and other internal parasites want to stay inside a host; it’s their eggs that will pass through. These eggs aren’t visible to the naked eye and can only be seen beneath a microscope. If you do see live parasites in your pet’s waste, then you are dealing with a severe infection. Myth: There are no fleas in Montana. Truth: This may have been the case 30 years ago, but today we have more fleas than people realize. In the spring and fall, when it’s cool and damp, we see an increase in pets suffering from fleas. In our practice, we saw fleas in January of this year. Myth: You only have to worry when you can see the parasites. Truth: Once upon a time, sticky gels applied to a pet’s neck were the most common method to treat and prevent fleas and ticks. Today, veterinarians are able to prescribe medications that are longer lasting and more effective. A monthly chewable tablet can take care of roundworms or hookworms, while some flea and tick medications only need to be taken once every three months! Ask us about Bravecto and Credelio. Learning your best friend has a parasite is an irksome experience. That’s why The Animal Clinic of Kalispell is running our annual Parasite Special through the month of May. Call 406-755-6886 to get 10 percent off parasite control and testing. Learn how you can tell parasites to get their paws off your pets. Myth: Messy topical solutions are the only way to treat parasites.
Directions
1. Heat oven to 325 F.
Line two baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 2. Mix all ingredients into a large bowl. Dough will be thick, so you may need to work in the flour with your hands. 3. Use a rolling pin to roll dough out to a ¼-inch thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, then transfer to baking sheets and bake for 18–20 minutes. When bottoms are lightly browned, remove from oven, flip treats to other side, and bake for another 10–12 minutes. 4. Remove from oven and let treats cool completely before serving to your dog. Treats can be
stored in airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week.
406.755.6886
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