Spring has sprung and tis’ the season for parasites.  Be prepared by having a parasite program in place to ensure that the pets you care for won’t bring home any unwanted stowaways.

1) Have A Brief Check-In As Part Of Your Admittance Routine.

A brief exam is great to take note of things like hair loss, ear infections, nasal discharge, fleas and/or flea dirt, and more.  Consider making it mandatory that all pets coming into the kennel have some sort of flea preventative administered and is up to date. This could be a simple question on the check-in form to ensure pets are protected.  Minimally, have an over the counter flea and tick topical available for purchase in the event that a pet is spotted to have fleas. Require that any pet with fleas or ticks be treated before coming into your kennel.

2) Intestinal Parasites Can “Seed Your Soil.”

There is a wide array of intestinal parasites that can be easily picked up by your guests through the soil or from other untreated guests. Some of these include:  Giardia, Coccidia, Hookworms, Tapeworms, Roundworms, and Whipworm. Some of these have zoonotic potential (people can get them).  Pets that go to doggie daycare or board are at a higher risk of exposure. Eggs of parasites can be in the dirt, stones, the floor, or even on fomites (objects) where fecal material wasn’t thoroughly cleaned. Consider requiring pets that board to have a negative fecal every 6 months.

Having a good parasite preventative program in place not only helps keep pets healthy but is a smart business move. Educate your staff to explain to clients how your program will help keep their pets safe. Clients will appreciate your concern!

Do you have questions that you want the vet to answer? Send your questions to [email protected] Dr. Lisa Aumiller is a veterinarian that has been serving pets in NJ and PA for over 15 years. She is the founder and CEO of HousePaws Mobile Veterinary Service, the largest mobile veterinary service in North America.

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