Parasite Prevention
Protection That Keeps Your Pet Comfortable, Healthy, and Safe
Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites are more than nuisances in your home. They can quietly impact your cat or dog’s comfort, long-term health, and even your family’s well-being. In Glastonbury and throughout Connecticut, our changing seasons and wooded environments mean pets are at risk for parasite exposure year-round.
At Glastonbury Veterinary Hospital, we take a thoughtful, preventive approach that keeps your dog or cat protected while giving you confidence in every decision. We know parasite prevention can feel overwhelming with so many products and opinions out there, so our role is to simplify the process, support your choices, and treat your pet like we would our own.
Why Parasite Prevention Matters
Parasites can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, anemia, digestive problems, and serious diseases that may not show symptoms right away. Many pets hide discomfort, which makes prevention even more important.
With consistent protection, we can help your pet avoid:
- Fleas: itching, skin infections, tapeworms, and flea-bite allergies
- Ticks: Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis (all common in CT)
- Heartworms: a mosquito-transmitted disease affecting the heart and lungs
- Intestinal Parasites: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms
- Environmental Contamination: some parasites can spread to other pets or humans
Preventive care keeps your pet healthier, more comfortable, and better protected from diseases we regularly see in our region.
Parasite Risks in Glastonbury, CT
Connecticut’s climate makes parasite exposure a year-round concern. Even during colder months, ticks remain active in wooded areas, and mosquitoes can survive longer than many people expect. Pets who enjoy hiking, spending time outdoors, or socializing with other animals are especially at risk.
Indoor-only pets still need protection. Fleas, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites can enter the home on clothing, shoes, or other pets.
Our Approach to Parasite Prevention
Just like every pet is different, every prevention plan should be, too. During your pet’s wellness visit, we look at lifestyle, medical history, age, and any existing conditions to recommend the safest and most effective prevention.
We focus on:
- Year-round flea and tick protection for both cats and dogs
Ticks are active nearly all year in Connecticut, and we see tick-borne diseases regularly. Fleas can cause intense itching, allergies, and can infest a home quickly. - Monthly heartworm prevention, tailored to your pet’s needs
Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, and even one bite is enough to infect cats or dogs. Treatment is difficult and lengthy for dogs. However, for cats, treatment is not available, making prevention essential. - Routine fecal testing to detect intestinal parasites early
Ticks are active nearly all year in Connecticut, and we see tick-borne diseases regularly. Fleas can cause intense itching, allergies, and can infest a home quickly. - Deworming protocols for puppies, kittens, and newly adopted pets
Roundworms, hookworms and other intestinal parasites are common, even in indoor pets. Kittens and puppies almost always need deworming, and adult pets benefit from routine fecal screenings. Some parasites can also affect people, making prevention important for your whole household. - Clear guidance on safety administering preventives at home
You’ll never feel rushed or pressured. We take the time to talk through each option, answer every question, and help you choose what feels right for your family… because that’s the Glastonbury Veterinary way.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Every parasite prevention conversation includes:
- A review of your pet’s daily habits and outdoor exposure
- Discussion of risks in our area
- Clear recommendations for protection
- Time for your questions, because your concerns matter
- Guidance on administering medications safely and consistently
You’ll always leave with a plan you understand and feel good about.
Protect Your Pet Today
Year-round parasite prevention is one of the simplest, most effective ways to keep your pet healthy. If your pet is due for parasite screening or you’d like help choosing the right prevention plan, we’re here when you need us.