As a child, growing up with a fur-sibling means having a best friend to share in all of life’s adventures. Some of the best childhood memories are made with sticky fingers, dirty paws, and of course, lots of snuggles and kisses.
However, these precious moments could also be an ideal setting for the transmission of parasites between pets and children.
For example, some internal parasites, such as roundworm, can be transmitted from infected dogs or cats to humans by accidentally ingesting the eggs present in feces. Even if stool is not visible, roundworm eggs may still be present in sandboxes, parks, or areas where pets defecate and your children play.
Other parasites, such as fleas, are external, but can still be big pests! If your furry family member has fleas, not only will they experience extreme discomfort, but eggs also will fall off into the areas in your home where they spend the most time. Once the flea eggs hatch and mature, they too start looking for a host. While humans don’t make ideal hosts, we can still be terrorized by fleas. Children who also spend time on the carpets, beds, and furniture where your pet lounges are most vulnerable to be bitten, but a flea infestation affects the whole family and is notoriously difficult to exterminate.
Fleas aren’t the only external parasites that make unwelcome houseguests In the London area. Many species of ticks are becoming increasingly endemic and can thrive in even the most beautifully manicured yards. Our furry family members’ fur and closer proximity to the ground make it easy for them to pick up a tick, bring it indoors, and share it with the family. Because ticks can carry diseases that affect both humans and pets, such as Lyme disease, this can put the entire household at risk.
Fortunately, by proactively treating our furry family members with proper parasite prevention, we can help protect the whole family, too. However, parasite prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your veterinarian can help you find the safest and most effective option for your furry family member and lifestyle, so that your pets and kids can enjoy all their favourite activities together… And you can relax, knowing they’re both protected!
Dr. I. Wonder is here to answer your questions regarding your furry family members. If you have a question, email it to us at danielle@NeighbourhoodPetClinic.com. Our team at Neighbourhood Pet Clinic will tap into their collective experience to answer your various questions.