Nothing Comes Between Me and My Dog – Especially Parasites

By Martha Scott Poindexter

Like many Americans, my dog is an essential part of my daily life. Our relationship is mutually beneficial—he keeps me active and helps relieve stress, and I make sure he is safe and healthy. Still, I must remain vigilant, because he could be an unwitting host for parasites.

Fleas, ticks, and heartworms are on the move, expanding their geographic reach into new states and regions across the U.S.

Where there are parasites, there are diseases like Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Ehrlichiosis. These diseases can pose a serious risk to people, particularly children, elderly, or immunocompromised people like organ transplant recipients. The CDC reports that each year nearly half a million people will be diagnosed and treated for a tickborne disease.

The good news is that when pet owners protect their animals from parasites, they can create a zone of protection for themselves, which is why the animal health industry is investing in innovative parasite control treatments. But since challenges to controlling parasites are coming faster and faster, we on the frontlines of animal care need a regulatory process that allows us to swiftly and aggressively address unmet animal health needs.

I don’t want irritating or dangerous pests to come between me and my dog Boomer, so I’m committed to working with his veterinarian to make sure he remains parasite free. That way, he can stay where he belongs – which is on my lap!