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Tick Season Is Starting: Simple Steps To Help Protect Pets This Spring
2 days ago 
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As spring begins, parasitic season returns. Fleas, ticks, and worms are among the most common health concerns for pets, but with the right preventive care, they can often be managed effectively. In recognition of World Parasite Awareness Day, Ceva Animal Health (Ceva), the world's fifth largest animal health company, is encouraging pet owners to stay informed and take responsible steps to help protect their pets and their households from parasites that can affect animals and people.
Understanding the Changing Parasite Landscape
Parasitic infections in dogs and cats are a global concern: warmer seasons, shifting rainfall patterns, new wildlife hosts, and increased pet travel are all contributing to the spread of parasites into new areas. This is confirmed by the spreading of vector-borne diseases that they may transmit in areas previously considered not at risk.
Thankfully, regular care, prevention, and simple routines can significantly reduce risks and help pets stay healthier and safer. With 97% of doctors recognising the health benefits of owning a pet, maintaining your pet’s health is essential not only for their well-being but also for improving your own physical and mental health. This interconnectedness between animal and human health exemplifies the One Health approach, highlighting how protecting pets contributes to the health of entire communities.
How Responsible Pet Care Helps Prevent Parasite Risks
With 139 million European households owning a pet, pet owners play a pivotal role in parasite control alongside veterinarians. Through enhanced surveillance and simple everyday habits, they can make a real difference:
- Seek vet advice and use only vet-recommended prevention products to find the best preventive options.
- After each walk, check your pet's skin for hidden ticks, especially in armpits, groin, inside ears, and between toes.
- Parasites can cause subtle signs in pets, like increased scratching, restlessness, loss of appetite, lethargy, or mood changes. Consult your vet and test regularly for infections, as early detection helps to prevent serious problems.
- Pets with outdoor access and/or in contact with other external animals are more likely to encounter parasites, so consult with your vet to reduce your pet's risk and enquire about appropriate treatments.
- Ensure the responsible disposal of pet waste, which helps reduce environmental contamination and parasite spread.
Responsible Owners, Responsible Use of Antiparasitic
As with any medication, responsible use of antiparasitic treatments is crucial to prevent drug resistance, and veterinary professionals play a key role in guiding and monitoring their appropriate use. Parasite prevention is a core aspect of pet care. Fleas, ticks, worms, and others cause discomfort, serious illness, and in some cases can spread to humans. Furthermore, mosquitoes and sandflies can transmit important diseases to animals and humans.
By combining veterinary advice, preventive treatments and simple care routines, pet owners can help support the health and well-being of their pets and the people who live with them.
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