Broad-Spectrum Pet Parasite Prevention

Living in Texas means warm weather nearly year-round—and unfortunately, that also means a high risk of parasites for our pets. At Olmito Veterinary Hospital, we take parasite prevention seriously, especially when it comes to heartworm disease, which is widespread in our region.

Protecting your pet from parasites is one of the most important things you can do to safeguard their health, and we’re here to help you do just that. By learning about the risks associated with common parasites, and how you can prevent parasitic infections, you can help your four-legged friend remain safe.

Schedule your pet’s parasite prevention appointment today so we can discuss prevention options and screening tests!

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Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is a life-threatening condition spread by mosquitoes, making year-round prevention essential. It only takes one mosquito bite for your pet to become infected, and once inside the bloodstream, heartworms grow and multiply, damaging the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels. In South Texas, heartworm disease is so common that we test for it annually and strongly encourage keeping your pet on heartworm prevention year round.

Dogs with heartworms may develop coughing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, eventually leading to heart failure. Cats can also contract heartworms, though symptoms vary and may be sudden, severe, and potentially fatal. While treatment exists for dogs, it is expensive, lengthy, and requires strict exercise restriction throughout the entire treatment process. For cats, no approved treatment is available, making prevention the best protection.

The good news? Heartworm is entirely preventable with consistent medication. Whether it’s a monthly oral or topical treatment or a long-lasting injection, staying on schedule is the key to keeping your pet safe.

Fleas & Ticks

Fleas thrive in warm, humid climates like South Texas, leading to itching, allergic reactions, skin infections, and even tapeworm infestations. They spread quickly and can be difficult to eliminate once they infest your home.

Ticks, found in grassy and wooded areas, pose an even greater danger by transmitting serious illnesses like Lyme disease and ehrlichia, which can affect both pets and people.

Prevention is simple and effective. Routine flea and tick preventives, whether oral or topical, protect your pet from infestations and the diseases these parasites carry. Regular checks after outdoor activities add an extra layer of protection.

Intestinal Parasites

Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms are common in Texas and can cause digestive upset, weight loss, and anemia. Pets often pick them up through contaminated soil, infected prey, or flea infestations. Some of these parasites can even be passed from your pet or contaminated environment to you.

Routine deworming, combined with annual fecal exams, helps detect and eliminate these hidden threats before they become a problem. Keeping your pet on a monthly parasite prevention plan is the best way to ensure they stay protected.

Protect Your Pet Year-Round with Parasite Prevention

Parasites are a constant threat in Texas, but with the right prevention, you can keep your pet safe and healthy. During every annual exam, we assess your pet’s risk, test for heartworms and other parasites, and recommend the best parasite prevention plan based on their lifestyle.

Don’t wait until parasites become a problem—protect your pet today with year-round prevention!

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