Protecting puppies from parasites

There are various nasty parasites you need to protect your new puppy from, including heartworms, intestinal worms, fleas and ticks. Whilst some treatments cover all of these parasites, it's best to talk to your vet about the treatment that's right for your dog type and location.

Whether it's oral chews, spot-on products or injections under the skin, it's important to get on top of parasite treatments as soon as you bring your puppy home, as introducing them to new environments can increase their exposure to disease.

There are various nasty parasites you need to protect your new puppy from, including intestinal worms and fleas.

Whether it's oral chews or spot-on products, it's important to get on top of parasite treatments as soon as you bring your puppy home, as introducing them to new environments can increase their exposure to disease.

Fleas and ticks

Fleas

Fleas

Fleas commonly cause itching, skin disease and allergic reactions in pups. What's more, they can be challenging to diagnose, as a puppy with flea allergy dermatitis may never actually be seen with fleas! That's why flea treatments should be given every month of the year to prevent and control flea infestations effectively. Please consult our veterinary team for the best advice on flea prevention for your puppy.

Fleas commonly cause itching, skin disease and allergic reactions in pups. What's more, they can be challenging to diagnose, as a puppy with flea allergy dermatitis may never actually be seen with fleas! That's why flea treatments should be given every month of the year to prevent and control flea infestations effectively.

Ticks

There are several types of ticks in Australia, with varying degrees of risk – from the nuisance bush tick to the deadly paralysis tick. Paralysis ticks are a common parasite for those living near the eastern seaboard of Australia. They can result in symptoms such as breathing diffculty, weakness, paralysis of the legs and vomiting.

Paralysis tick
Cattle tick
Bush tick
Brown dog tick

Tick prevention products include:

  • Oral chews
  • Spot-on products
  • Tick collars
  • Sprays
  • Rinses

Our team are happy to advise the best preventative for your puppy. Importantly, even when you apply a prevention product, you should check your puppy for ticks during tick season. Simply run your fingertips over the skin, checking for lumps. Most ticks reside on the head, neck, and ears, but you should take the time to check the entire body. Please discuss the most suitable product for your pup with our veterinary team.