The northeastern United States is the epicenter for Lyme disease, but ticks are only one of several common parasites that affect pets in this region. Here’s a quick guide to the top 5 most common parasites in the Northeast and how to protect your pet from infestations.
| Parasite | What are they? | What can you do about them? |
|---|---|---|
| Black-legged ticks | Ticks are external parasites that live freely but must feed on pets periodically. Infected ticks can transmit Lyme disease and anaplasmosis to pets and people. | • Use tick prevention products on dogs year-round. • Do not use dog products on cats. |
| Giardia | Giardia is a protozoan parasite that causes diarrhea and may be passed to immunocompromised individuals. | • Bathe infected pets after treatment. • Clean up feces promptly, clean your home regularly, and practice good hygiene. |
| Roundworms | Roundworms are intestinal parasites that cause minor gastrointestinal effects in pets but pose a significant danger to children who accidentally consume infective eggs. | • Administer heartworm preventives that also control intestinal parasites. • Check fecal tests 4 times a year in puppies and kittens and twice annually in adults. |
| Fleas | Fleas are external parasites that infest pets and homes, cause allergic reactions, and can transmit diseases to people and pets. | •Administer veterinary-approved flea preventives to all household pets year-round. |
| Heartworms | Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworms cause serious heart and lung disease that can be fatal in dogs and cats. | • Administer a monthly heartworm preventive. • Have your dog tested for heartworms annually. |