Library
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Echinococcosis refers to being infected with a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus and is primarily a parasite of coyotes and foxes. Infected dogs are usually asymptomatic, but in both dogs and humans the parasite can cause large cysts to form within the lungs and liver. E.multilocularis is treated with praziquantel and in most cases the prognosis is good.
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Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of allergic reactions in dogs. The antigens in flea saliva cause an intensely itchy response in sensitive dogs. Itching and hair loss in the region from the middle of the back to the tail base and down the rear legs (the flea triangle) is often associated with this allergy. Strict flea control is essential for treatment and prevention.
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Fleas are the most common nuisance and parasite affecting dogs, and an infestation can lead to serious health problems. Homes with carpets and central heating provide ideal conditions for the year-round growth of fleas. This handout outlines flea control options for your dog and your home.
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Fluralaner (brand name Bravecto®) is given by mouth or applied topically to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. It is sometimes used off label to treat sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange, or ear mites in dogs and cats. It is also sometimes used for skin and ear mites in rabbits and hedgehogs.
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Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a microscopic protozoan. These parasites attach themselves to the intestinal wall and the damage causes an acute, sudden onset of foul-smelling diarrhea. Diagnosis may be by routine fecal flotation or presumptively based on clinical signs. Fenbendazole and metronidazole are the drugs most commonly used to treat giardiasis.
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Harvest mites, also known as red bugs, trombiculid mites, scrub-itch mites, berry bugs or, in their larval stage, as chiggers, are mites commonly found in forests and grasslands. Larval stages affect warm-blooded animals and cause a very itchy skin reaction.
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Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Adult heartworms may live for 5 to 7 years and produce millions of offspring called microfilaria. You can prevent your dog from getting heartworms by using a heartworm preventive.
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Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis, better known as heartworm. Dogs become infected when they are bitten by an infected mosquito carrying immature heartworms. This handout discusses signs, diagnostic tests, treatment, and prevention in dogs.
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Heartworm treatment involves several components to combat potential bacterial infection, kill heartworm larvae (microfilaria), kill adult heartworms, and then test to confirm successful treatment. Complete rest for a dog undergoing treatment is essential.
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Hepatozoonosis in dogs is caused by ingestion of one of two organisms: H. americanum and H. canis. Both parasites are more common in the southern United States. The clinical sign and treatments for dogs with hepatozoonosis differ depending on the parasite species causing the infection. In either case, with appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good.