DailySun
Johannesburg – Today marks the first-ever World Parasite Awareness Day.
Initiated on Thursday, (20 March 2025), this worldwide campaign highlights the necessity of protecting pets from harmful parasites through regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care.
“Our beloved companions deserve to live long, happy, and healthy lives,” remarked Dr. Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Lead for Companion Animals at Zoetis South Africa.
“Routine veterinary health evaluations are essential, where your vet will perform a general wellness check and evaluate the need for vaccinations, blood tests, and parasite screenings, among other assessments.”
A faecal analysis, which can be conducted during a standard visit, is a quick and effective way to identify intestinal parasites.
Veterinarians now have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools like Imagyst – an innovative solution that utilizes AI technology – enabling in-clinic faecal testing for rapid and accurate outcomes.
This advancement gives dog and cat owners peace of mind, knowing their pets have been thoroughly checked and safeguarded.
Which parasites should pet owners watch out for?
A variety of parasites can threaten pets and, in some instances, their owners as well.
The most common include:
- Fleas – These small insects can cause itching, discomfort, and allergic reactions in pets, as well as transmit diseases and tapeworms.
- Ticks – Ticks attach to the skin and can transmit serious diseases such as tick-borne fever and biliary.
- Roundworms – These intestinal parasites may result in weight loss, diarrhea, and other digestive issues in pets and can also be transmitted to humans, especially children.
- Hookworms – These parasites attach to the intestinal wall, causing anemia and weakness in pets.
- Tapeworms – Often acquired through fleas, tapeworms can lead to digestive distress and discomfort.
Why is parasite prevention important?
If not addressed, parasites can cause discomfort, illness, and potentially dangerous conditions in pets.
Taking proactive actions – such as regular testing and discussing suitable preventive measures with your veterinarian based on your pet’s risk assessment – ensures that your pets remain happy, healthy, and free from parasites.
A day to celebrate the joy of pets
“World Parasite Awareness Day not only emphasizes education and prevention but also celebrates the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives,” Dr. Dent noted.
“From emotional support to companionship, they hold an irreplaceable role in our homes and communities. Keeping them healthy fortifies the special bond we share.”
Pet owners are encouraged to take the following actions:
- Schedule a veterinary appointment, including a faecal test, to confirm that their pets are free of parasites.
- Follow their veterinarian’s recommended parasite prevention protocol for year-round protection.
- Spread awareness about World Parasite Awareness Day to help protect more pets and families.
“Let’s unite to ensure that all pets receive the necessary care. When we protect our pets, we protect ourselves,” declared Dr. Dent.
