Dogs are naturally exposed to fleas, ticks, and worms, which are common in many environments. The best way to keep your dog healthy and comfortable is by using regular flea, tick, and worm prevention treatments.
By staying proactive with vet-recommended flea treatment for dogs, you can prevent infestations before they become a problem. Prevention is much easier and more cost-effective than tackling an infestation once it takes hold.
All year-round flea, tick and worming treatment is just one of the many benefits of joining our Pet Health for Life Plan.
Ticks in Dogs
Ticks are small, eight-legged parasites that vary in size from 1mm to 1cm, swelling as they feed on your dog’s blood. They are commonly found in grasslands, woodlands, and gardens across the UK.
Ticks are most active in spring and autumn, but they can be found year-round. Unlike fleas, ticks do not jump or fly—they cling to your dog's coat from tall grass and then burrow into the skin to feed.
Ticks can cause:
✔ Skin irritation and discomfort
✔ Serious diseases, such as Lyme disease
✔ Potential transmission to humans
To protect your dog, use a flea treatment that also repels ticks. Options include spot-on treatments, oral tablets, and tick collars—your vet can help you choose the best option for your pet.
Book a flea and worm treatment appointment
Fleas in Dogs
Fleas are among the most common parasites affecting dogs. These tiny, dark brown insects cause intense itching, allergic reactions, and skin infections.
Even if you only spot a few fleas, they may have already laid eggs throughout your home. One female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, which fall into carpets, bedding, and furniture, leading to a rapid infestation..
Fleas will make your pet uncomfortable and itchy; they can also pose a profoundly serious health risk. Severe flea infestations can cause anaemia due to blood loss caused by the parasites, and it can be fatal to puppies or immunocompromised dogs. Don't forget fleas feed on people too, and a flea infestation can easily get into your home.
There are numerous flea treatments on the market which provide year-round prevention. It is best to consult your vet to find the safest, most effective and most sustainable product for your dog. Spot on treatments and medication in tablets and injections are the preferred long-term flea control methods. Some products attack adult fleas, while others work by interrupting flea development – and some newer products on the market do both!
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Worms in Dogs: Lungworm, Roundworm & Tapeworm
Dogs are also at risk of worm infections, including roundworms, tapeworms, and lungworms, which can also pose a risk to humans.
Many worms spread through faeces, while tapeworms are transmitted via fleas—another reason why flea prevention is essential.
Lungworm: A Serious Risk for Dogs
Lungworm is a potentially fatal parasite that dogs can contract from foxes, slugs, and snails. Within 50 miles of our practices, there have been over 200 reported cases of lungworm.
Symptoms of lungworm include:
- Coughing or breathing difficulties
- Weight loss and lethargy
- Bleeding disorders
Lungworm can be life-threatening, so early detection and prevention are crucial.
Protect your dog by:
✔ Avoiding contact with slugs, snails, and frogs
✔ Keeping water bowls clean and avoiding outdoor sources
✔ Using monthly parasite prevention that includes lungworm protection
✔ Following your vet’s advice on regular deworming
By following these tips and seeking prompt veterinary care if you suspect your dog has lungworm, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Treatment of lungworm usually involves medications that are designed to kill the worms and reduce the inflammation and damage in the lungs. In some cases, dogs may need to be hospitalized for supportive care.
Book a flea and worm treatment appointment
Spread the Cost of Flea Treatment for Dogs With Pet Health for Life
Our Pet Health for Life Plan is a great way to spread the cost and save on your pet’s routine healthcare. You will receive all the essential treatments to keep your dog free from ticks, fleas and worms alongside routine checks which keeps your dog in the best possible health and helps them lead happier lives.
Lungworm FAQs
What are the signs of lungworm in dogs?
Lungworm in dogs is a parasitic infection that can cause a range of symptoms. The signs of lungworm can vary depending on the severity of the infection, the age and health of the dog, and other factors. Here are some of the common signs of lungworm in dogs:
- Coughing - this is one of the most common signs of lungworm infection in dogs. The cough may be persistent and can sometimes be accompanied by phlegm or blood.
- Breathing difficulties - lungworm can cause breathing difficulties, including shortness of breath and wheezing.
- Decreased appetite - dogs with lungworm may show a decreased appetite and a general lack of interest in food.
- Weight loss - if the lungworm infection is severe, the dog may begin to lose weight rapidly.
- Lethargy - dogs with lungworm may show a lack of energy and interest in exercise or play.
- Vomiting - in some cases, lungworm infection can cause dogs to vomit.
- Changes in behaviour - dogs with lungworm may exhibit changes in behaviour, such as restlessness, agitation, or depression.
If you suspect that your dog may have lungworm, it is important to take them to see your vet as soon as possible. Lungworm can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it can be successfully treated if caught early.
How do dogs get lungworm?
Dogs can get lungworm by ingesting snails, slugs or frogs infected with lungworm larvae. This can happen when dogs accidentally eat these creatures, drink contaminated water or eat grass that has come into contact with infected snails or slugs. Lungworm infection is more common in dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. Preventive measures include avoiding contact with snails and slugs, providing clean drinking water and regular deworming.
Can a dog recover from lungworm?
Yes, with appropriate treatment, dogs can recover from lungworm. Treatment usually involves medication to kill the worms and supportive care. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a successful recovery. Preventative measures, such as regular deworming and minimising exposure to snails and slugs, can also help to reduce the risk of lungworm infection.
What are the first signs of lungworm in dogs?
The first signs of lungworm in dogs can include coughing, difficulty breathing, reduced appetite, weight loss and lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect a lungworm infection, it is important to seek veterinary advice immediately for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
How quickly does lungworm take to develop?
The time it takes for lungworm to develop in a dog can vary depending on several factors, including the dog's age, immune system and the severity of the infection. In general, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a dog to develop symptoms of lungworm after being infected with the parasite. However, some dogs may not show any symptoms at all, making it difficult to know if they have been infected. If you suspect that your dog may have been exposed to lungworm, it is important to speak to your vet and have your dog tested for the parasite to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
*Source: My Pet and I, March 2023
