Strategic
De worming
Reducing
the risks to pets and people
What is strategic de worming?
Strategic de worming consists
of treating your pet for removal of parasitic works
such as hookworms, roundworms, whip worms and tapeworms
at regular intervals that are specifically designed
to prevent parasitic disease and the shedding of parasite
eggs in your yard and home.
Why is regular and more frequent
de worming more beneficial to my pet?
Strategic de worming helps prevent
the development of infections in your pet by treating
before parasite damage occurs. This is especially important
for very young puppies and kittens, because they can
be seriously harmed if parasites are left untreated.
In addition, many parasites can go undetected, makes
diagnosis, especially in adult dogs and cats.
Are there any other reasons strategic worming is best for my pet?
Definitely. Strategic de worming prevents the shedding of parasite eggs
by your pet. These eggs contaminate the environment, and can later reinfect
your pet and may infect your family.
What are the risks to people?
In people, zoonotic parasites can cause a variety
of conditions, depending on the parasite, the route of the infection,
the person's age and immune statues, and the size of the infectious
dose. Zoonotic infections of humans range from sub-clinical (no noticeable
problems) to blindness or even death. E. multilocularus, one species
of tapeworm, can cause severe health problems. Though cases of the
infection are rare, the parasite has been identified more frequently
in the United States and more cases are likely to occur.
How do humans get parasites
from animals?
Humans contract zoonotic parasites
by accidentally ingesting parasite eggs or larvae which
are contaminating the environment or from close contact
with contaminated pets. People become infected by:
· Putting contaminated objects or hands in their mouths.
· Eating fruits or vegetables without washing them thoroughly.
· Playing in sandboxes or soil contaminated with animal feces.
· Handling animals without washing hands afterwards.
· Being in close contact with infected animals.
· Accidentally ingesting a flea.
· Not washing hands routinely.
Who is most susceptible to parasitic
infections?
· Young children.
· People with puppies or kittens in the household.
· People who are careless about sanitation or personal hygiene.
· People who work in close contact with animals.
· People who work in contaminated environments.
· People who are on medications that compromise their immune system.
· Pet owners who do not routinely de worm their animals.
How can I keep my pet from being
exposed to parasites?
You can't. That's why the practice
of strategic de worming is so important. You should
consult your veterinarian for more details and establish
an appropriate de worming schedule for your pet.
Information on this page taken directly from the informational handout
distributed by the Bayer Corporation (http://www.bayer.com).
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