Parasites are more than a nuisance. They can cause serious illness in pets and may also pose a risk to human family members. This World Parasite Awareness Day on 20 March, global animal health company Zoetis shares practical advice to help protect both pets and people.
Why Parasite Prevention Matters
Pet owners often focus on daily essentials such as food, water, exercise and affection. However, parasite prevention is sometimes overlooked because the threat is not always visible.
“It’s easy to forget something that’s out of sight and out of mind,” says Dr Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Director for Companion Animals at Zoetis South Africa. “While pet owners may notice scratching from fleas or gastrointestinal upset from some intestinal worms, many parasites can go undetected.”
Some parasites and the infections they carry can also affect humans. Preventing parasite infestations protects not only pets, but everyone in the household.
How to Protect Your Pet from Parasites
Effective parasite control starts with a proactive plan. Waiting until signs appear before taking action increases the risk to both pets and homes.
Dr Dent shares key tips for pet owners.
Be Proactive with Prevention
Preventative care is essential. Pets may carry parasites even when they appear healthy.
“Don’t wait to treat parasites reactively. Prevention is key,” says Dr Dent. “Just because your pet isn’t showing visible signs does not mean they are not carrying parasites.”
Ticks, for example, can transmit a range of diseases to dogs. The risk of exposure varies depending on location and environmental changes. A veterinarian can recommend a prevention plan suited to the risks in your area.
Parasite Prevention Is a Year-Round Priority
World Parasite Awareness Day takes place on 20 March. In the northern hemisphere this date coincides with the start of spring, a time when parasite awareness often increases.
In South Africa, however, parasite prevention should remain consistent throughout the year.
“Spring and summer tend to be the months when we start thinking about ticks and insects but being proactive during the cooler months is equally important,” says Dr Dent.
Parasites Can Be Found Anywhere
Parasites do not only exist in rural environments. Pets living in urban areas remain at risk.
“Even in clean homes and urban areas, pets can still be exposed to parasites,” says Dr Dent. “Pets spend time in the garden, they eat things in the park that they’re not supposed to, they interact with other animals at dog parks and catteries.”
Once parasites enter a home they can multiply quickly. A single female flea can lay dozens of eggs each day, increasing the chance of a household infestation if not controlled early.
Prevention Plans Should Be Personalised
Parasite control does not follow a single formula. Each pet has different needs based on age, lifestyle, environment and health history.
A veterinarian can recommend the most suitable parasite prevention strategy based on these individual factors.
Global Prevention Pledge
On World Parasite Awareness Day, organisations and individuals across the world sign the Global Prevention Pledge. This initiative promotes a proactive approach to protecting pets from parasites.
Pet owners can participate by consulting their veterinarian and committing to a year-round parasite prevention routine. Maintaining consistent care protects pets and helps safeguard the entire household.
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