Sharing key points from the DOGPARCs study, Donato Traversa, DVM, PhD, DipEVPC, EBVS, reminds us of the importance of keeping clients informed of the parasite risks at off-leash dog parks. He shares key pearls to put into practice with pet owners.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, January/February 2021. Link. Key pearls for your clients:
- Intestinal parasites may be a constant threat in dogs; routine testing and treatment may be needed
- It is crucial to educate owners that, although dog parks play an important role in the well-being of their pet, there is an increased risk for exposure to intestinal parasites
- Frequent fecal examination with appropriate and combined diagnostic techniques is important in dogs of all ages
- Dogs should be maintained on broad-spectrum parasiticides used on an individual basis and according to local epizootiology conditions
INSIGHTS: Whether a dog park, beach or active walking trails where dogs gather, risks increase. Messaging on social media and in newsletters is important. Parasite risk is a good topic for Rotary or Lions Club meetings, as well as, in local media.