Parasites: invisible enemies
Parasites are one of the most common threats to dogs' health. They can cause discomfort, serious diseases and in some cases transmit diseases to humans.
There are external parasites (that live on the skin) and internal ones (that live in the body). Good prevention is key to protecting your dog.
Most common parasites
Here are the parasites that most frequently affect dogs:
Ticks
Attach to the skin and suck blood. Can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease.
Transmission: contact with tall grass and vegetation.
Fleas
Cause intense itching and can transmit tapeworm. Also infest the home environment.
Transmission: contact with other animals or infested environments.
Intestinal Worms
Roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms. Cause digestive problems, weight loss and anemia.
Transmission: ingestion of eggs from infected feces or prey.
Heartworm (Dirofilaria)
Worms that live in the heart and lungs. Potentially fatal disease.
Transmission: bite of infected mosquitoes.
Leishmaniasis
Serious disease caused by a protozoan. Affects skin, internal organs and immune system.
Transmission: sandfly bite.
Ear Mites
Cause ear infection, intense itching and head shaking. Common in puppies.
Transmission: direct contact with infected animals.
Seasonal parasite calendar
Parasite risk varies throughout the year. Here's when to pay more attention:
Spring
High tick and flea risk. Start heartworm prevention.
Summer
Maximum risk for all parasites. Watch for leishmaniasis.
Fall
Ticks still active. Continue prevention.
Winter
Reduced but not absent risk. Maintain regular checks.
Infestation symptoms
Watch your dog for these signs that could indicate the presence of parasites:
Intense itching
Skin redness
Hair loss
Lethargy
Vomiting or diarrhea
Weight loss
How to prevent parasites
Regular antiparasitics
Use antiparasitic products (spot-on, collars, tablets) year-round as directed by your vet.
Frequent checks
After every walk, check the dog's coat for ticks, especially on ears, armpits and groin.
Clean environment
Regularly wash the dog bed and frequently vacuum carpets and sofas where the dog rests.
Periodic deworming
Deworm the intestines according to the schedule recommended by your vet.
Avoid risk areas
During twilight hours, avoid areas with stagnant water where sandflies are more active.
Vaccines and prophylaxis
Ask your vet about the leishmaniasis vaccine and heartworm prophylaxis.
Available treatments
Here are the main treatment options for parasites:
Topical antiparasitics (Spot-on)
Solutions applied to the skin. Effective against fleas, ticks and some mites.
Oral tablets
Medications given by mouth. Some also protect against intestinal worms.
Antiparasitic collars
Long-term protection (up to 8 months). Effective against fleas and ticks.
Shampoos and sprays
Useful for immediate treatment in case of ongoing infestation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I treat my dog against parasites?
It depends on the product used: spot-ons usually monthly, collars every 6-8 months, tablets vary. Always follow product and vet directions.
How do I remove a tick from my dog?
Use tick tweezers or a special hook. Grab the tick close to the skin and pull with a twisting motion. Don't use oil or alcohol. Disinfect after removal.
Can dog fleas infest the house?
Yes, fleas lay eggs that fall into the environment. To eliminate an infestation you must treat both the dog and the house (washing, vacuuming, environmental sprays).
Is leishmaniasis curable?
Leishmaniasis is manageable but not completely curable. Infected dogs need lifelong treatment. Prevention is essential.
Are dog parasites dangerous to humans?
Some are: ticks can transmit diseases to humans, some intestinal worms are zoonotic. Good prevention protects the whole family.