Why Parasite Prevention is So Important

Parasites may be small, but their impact can be huge. They can cause irritation, allergic reactions, anaemia, and digestive issues in pets, while also spreading more serious diseases. For humans, certain parasites can lead to severe health problems if transmitted from animals. Beyond this, the environment can also possibly be affected when parasite treatments are not used correctly, potentially impacting wildlife and ecosystems. Understanding these risks and taking the right approach to parasite prevention ensures pets remain healthy while minimising unintended consequences.

Seeking Professional Advice

Choosing the right parasite treatment isn’t as simple as picking a product off the shelf. Different pets have different needs, and the best treatment for one animal might not be the right choice for another. Factors like species, lifestyle, and seasonal risks all influence the type of treatment needed. A pet that frequently explores the outdoors, for example, may be more exposed to ticks and need a different approach than one that stays indoors.

Because of these differences, seeking expert advice is the best way to ensure pets receive the right protection. Speaking with a vet or a Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) at a pet retailer helps owners select the correct product, dose, and frequency based on their pet’s individual risk factors. Trusted online sources, such as the European Scientific Counsel for Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP), also provide evidence-based guidance for effective parasite control. Making informed decisions helps ensure that treatments work properly while reducing any unnecessary risks.

Following Instructions for Safe and Effective Use

Once the right treatment has been chosen, it’s just as important to use it correctly. Carefully reading and following the instructions provided with any anti-parasitic medicine ensures the treatment is both safe and effective. Using the correct dosage for a pet’s species, weight, and age is crucial, as giving the wrong amount may make the treatment less effective or cause harm. Cats should not be given treatments designed for dogs, as some ingredients can be toxic to them. If multiple pets live in the same household, they may all need to be treated at the same time to prevent reinfestation.

Disposing of medicines and packaging responsibly is another key part of safe parasite control. Medicines should never be flushed down the loo or poured down the drain, as they then can enter the environment. If unsure about how to dispose of old treatments, owners can check with their vet or local waste authority. Some treatments also have specific guidance on bathing and swimming. Washing a pet too soon after applying a spot-on treatment, for example, can reduce its effectiveness, and some treatments should not come into contact with watercourses. Checking the product label before bathing, grooming, or allowing a pet to swim ensures the treatment continues to work as intended and protects our planet.

Strict Regulations Keep Treatments Safe

Before anti-parasitic medicines are approved for use, they go through a rigorous regulatory process to assess their safety, effectiveness, and necessity. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), the government’s independent veterinary medicines regulator, carefully evaluate potential risks to animals, humans, and the environment to ensure that the benefits of treatment outweigh any concerns. Once on the market, these products continue to be monitored for safety. If pet owners notice unexpected side effects or feel a product hasn’t worked as expected, they can report it to their vet, the VMD, or the product’s manufacturer. This ongoing monitoring helps ensure that parasite treatments remain both safe and effective.

Keeping Pets, People & the Planet Safe—Together

Taking a responsible approach to parasite prevention isn’t just about keeping individual pets safe—it’s about protecting human health and the environment too. By seeking professional advice, using treatments correctly, and disposing of medicines responsibly, pet owners can play a vital role in keeping their animals healthy while minimising risks to the wider world. Small changes in how parasite treatments are used can make a big difference.

Pet owners can join the conversation on social media using #UseItRightTreatThemRight to help spread awareness and encourage responsible parasite prevention.

For more information and expert advice, visit the Use It Right, Treat Them Right website.