Parasite prevention is an important part of helping dogs and cats stay healthy. Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites can affect pets even when they seem perfectly well. Some parasites can also pose health risks to people, making a thoughtful prevention plan valuable for the whole household.
At Jog Lantana Animal Clinic, we combine regular examinations, appropriate testing, and preventive medication selected for your pet. Dr. Miriam Delbene considers your pet’s species, age, medical history, lifestyle, and exposure risk before recommending a plan. Prevention is the key—but the right plan is not identical for every pet.
Why Does Parasite Prevention Matter?
Parasites can cause more than itching or an upset stomach. Depending on the parasite, infection may lead to intestinal illness, anemia, skin problems, or serious heart and lung disease. Ticks may transmit infections, while fleas can multiply quickly in a home and contribute to other health concerns.
Dogs and cats do not have to spend all day outdoors to be exposed. Mosquitoes and fleas can reach pets at home, and parasite exposure can occur during walks, visits to parks, boarding, travel, or contact with contaminated environments. Finding a problem early and maintaining appropriate prevention may help avoid discomfort and more complicated treatment later.
Parasite Screening at JLAC
Testing helps us look for infections that may not be apparent during a physical examination. We work exclusively with IDEXX for laboratory testing and select screening based on the individual patient.
IDEXX 4Dx Plus Testing for Dogs
The IDEXX 4Dx Plus test screens dogs for heartworm antigen and antibodies associated with three tick-borne infections: Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma. This allows us to evaluate several important risks using a blood sample.
A positive result does not, by itself, tell us everything about a dog’s current health or determine a treatment plan. Dr. Delbene interprets the result alongside the examination, symptoms, prevention history, and any additional testing that may be needed. Regular screening remains important even for dogs receiving preventive medication.
IDEXX Fecal Testing for Intestinal Parasites
A fecal examination looks for intestinal parasites that may be present even when a pet has normal stools. Depending on the test ordered, IDEXX testing may combine examination of the stool sample with antigen testing for several clinically important parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and other organisms covered by the selected panel.
Because different tests detect different organisms, Dr. Delbene will recommend the fecal screening appropriate for your dog or cat. If your pet has diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or a particular exposure, additional testing may be recommended even after an initial negative result.
Please bring a fresh stool sample to your pet’s appointment when possible. If you cannot bring one, let our team know so we can discuss how to complete the recommended testing.
Choosing the Right Prevention
Preventive products differ in what they protect against. A medication that controls fleas does not necessarily prevent heartworm disease or treat intestinal parasites. We will explain what each recommended product covers, how often it should be given, and any precautions relevant to your pet.
For many pets, consistent year-round protection is appropriate, particularly because exposure does not always stop when the season changes. We will help you choose a practical plan and review it as your pet’s health or lifestyle changes.
Protecting Your Family, Too
Some intestinal parasites can be transmitted from animals or contaminated environments to people. Promptly picking up pet waste, washing hands after handling stool, controlling fleas, and following your veterinarian’s testing and prevention recommendations all help reduce risk.
Our goal is to help your pet stay comfortable and healthy while giving your family clear, personalized guidance—not simply a product to take home.
Let’s Build Your Pet’s Prevention Plan
Whether your pet is due for routine screening, has missed a preventive dose, or has symptoms that concern you, we are here to help. We can review your pet’s current protection, recommend appropriate testing, and make a plan together.
Request a Parasite Prevention Visit
You may also call us at (561) 964-3144.
Healing Hands & Caring Hearts for Your Pets. It’s Our Promise to You!