Chapter 7: Ticks, Worms and Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes that breed easily in our warm, wet weather, so discuss year-round prevention with your vet while your pet is still young. Ticks and fleas are common in long grass, parks and landed neighbourhoods, so check the ears, neck and armpits after every outing and pull any ticks off promptly with tweezers.

Intestinal worms can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or a dull coat, and some types pass to people, especially children. Keep a simple record of when deworming and flea treatments were last given, and bring it along to your next clinic visit so your vet can plan the rest of the year.