Hawaii's Tropical Climate Favors Many Other Parasites
Hawaii's Tropical Climate Favors Many Other Parasites
As much as we might love the year round tropical climate here in Hawaii, so do the parasites. Intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms not only seem to occur more commonly in Hawaii, they also appear to occur with greater severity. As a practicing veterinarian in Kona, I have observed several life-threatening and fatal cases of intestinal worms. Symptoms and complications of intestinal parastism include malnourishment, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, intestinal obstruction, and electroylte imbalances.
Conveniently, the same prescription that most dogs take monthly (or should consider taking) for heartworm prevention will concurrently eliminate many intestinal parasites. Breakthroughs can still occur so occasionally collecting a stool specimen from your dog for your veterinarian to do a fecal parasite check is also recommended. With early detection, intestinal parasites are easily treated and rarely life-threatening.
Ectoparasites also thrive in our tropical climate. Fleas and ticks abound. Flea bites can be highly allergenic and irritating to dogs, and fleas are the source of tapeworms. Ticks can transmit Ehrlichia and Babesia. There are number of prescription and non-prescription products to prevent flea and tick infestations. Please follow label instructions and precautions.
Fleas spend a majority of time in the environment and land on dogs mostly to feed. Hence, cleaning the pet's environment, especially the more controllable indoor environment, is an important part of flea control. Vacuuming will help to "deflea" the environment. Make sure to get under the furniture, between and under the couch cushions, and corners and crevices. Dispose of flea-filled vaccuum bags. Washing your pet's bedding regularly will also help to prevent flea infestations. Fleabusters has proven to be a safe and helpful product for flea control.
Personally, the idea of putting insecticides, insect-growth regulators, or neuromuscular blocking agents on and into my canine companion bothers me almost as much as the ectoparasites themselves, especially when they are not completely effective. Integrating some of the options suggested by veterinarian Dr. Robin Woodley at Hawaii Veterinary Alternatives has afforded me improved tick control amongst my animal companions using protocols that accommodate my preferences.
As with any reference, these pages are not a substitute for veterinary care. Veterinary practice is an eyes, ears, nose, and hands-on profession which cannot be accomplished over the Internet.