This clinic follows the strategic deworming recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists (AAVP).   These recommendations are very important for young puppies and kittens, because they can be seriously harmed by parasites.  Most puppies or kittens are born with or acquire intestinal parasites shortly after birth.  You may not recognize any illness and your pet may not appear sick or run down until it is too late.                                                         

An equally important reason for deworming is the prevention of shedding of parasite eggs by your pet.  These eggs can contaminate your yard, your carpet, or anywhere you pet goes.  Not only can your pets be reinfected, but your family can be harmed.  These parasite eggs can remain in the soil for years and humans can be accidentally infected with roundworms or hookworms.  Accidental ingestion of infected fleas can cause infection by tapeworms.                                            

People, especially children, can be infected by working or playing in infected soil and putting contaminated hands in their mouth.  Fruits and vegetables can also be a source of infection.