Common Dog Parasite Identification

Feline Parasite IdentificationA parasite is defined in the dictionary as “an organism that lives on or in an organism of another species, known as the host, from the body of which it obtains nutriment.” Judging from this definition a parasite—whether in a person or animal—is an unwanted passenger that leaches off of its host. Dog parasite identification is important since parasites able to infest a dog come in many shapes, sizes, and severities.

A common dreaded parasite is the flea. These little passengers can make life miserable for your pet and you! You can identify them by itching affect your pet and even you. You might also see small fleas jumping off of your dog or crawling on their face. Fleas are one of the most treatable pests. Collars, shampoos, pills, drops, and dips are all methods of treatment. Vets recommend using a combination of treatments to best protect against and treat a flea infestation.

Heartworm disease is a serious pest. These small parasites live in the heart and the blood vessels of the lung. Mosquitoes transmit heartworms. They can infect several species, but dogs are the most susceptible to them. If left untreated, heartworms can be fatal. While they are difficult to treat, they are easy to prevent with the assistance of your veterinarian. Infected dogs usually suffer from a soft, dry cough. Lethargy and sulking are also commonly dog parasite identification signs for heartworms.

The variety of canine parasites includes ear mites, tiny parasites most pet owners must cope with eventually. They make their home in the ear canal and are capable of causing severe itchiness and irritation. Otodectes cynotis is the most common type of ear mite. Sometimes you will hear an infestation of ear mites referred to as “otodectic manage.” You will recognize ear mites based on your dog constantly digging and scratching at their ears. When peering into their ears you may see clusters of small black dogs; these are the mites.

Two keys to battling parasites exist: Prevention and dog parasite identification. The sooner you recognize common symptoms of these most common parasites, the sooner you can treat them.