Treatments against dog parasites

Dog parasites: a danger for the Lagotto Romagnolo

Ticks, fleas, mosquitoes and parasites. These are the parasites that mainly infest our Lagotto Romagnolo in the period from spring to early autumn.

The last years are characterised by very long autumns and mild winters. The presence of these parasites and insects in many regions of Italy is now constant throughout the year. This means that prevention of diseases carried by parasites and mosquitoes must be constant.

Insects and parasites come into contact with the blood of our Lagotto Romagnolo, carrying diseases that are dangerous even for the life of our dog. Despite its thick, curly coat, the Lagotto Romagnolo is not immune.

Which diseases and complications are carried by parasites and insects.

Ticks and fleas can cause minor complications such as itching and inflammation. But also serious diseases such as anaemia and weight loss.

Mosquitoes and parasites carry terrible diseases. Diseases which, if not treated in time, have deadly consequences, such as Filariasis and Leishmaniasis.

Filariasis

It can occur months after the triggering event, a mosquito bite. The larvae settle in the dog’s skin. Through the circulatory system they travel up to the pulmonary artery and then to the heart.  The consequences can be lethal. It affects the heart and the respiratory system. Extremely expensive treatment does not always guarantee that our dog will be saved. There is a prophylaxis to protect your dog if it is bitten by an insect carrying the disease.

Leishmaniasis

It can take months before it is diagnosed. The earlier it is detected, the greater the chances of saving your dog. For Leishmaniasis there is NO specific prophylaxis to protect our dog once it has been affected. There are areas in Italy identified as being at risk of leishmaniasis. The only defence is to avoid our dog coming into contact with carrier insects. This is done through the constant use of repellents. If we live in areas where the disease is widespread, we must be even more careful. A vaccine has recently been released, the use of which is still under discussion among vets. The advisability of using these vaccines also depends on the size of the dog and should be assessed in consultation with your vet.

Antiparasitics for dogs: what and when

The stakes are too high on this subject. We must not be light-hearted and use the necessary preventive products regularly.

Specific pesticides and repellents for ticks, fleas and mosquitoes.

These are dosage or collar products. There are various brands. Collars provide longer coverage. They are preferable to avoid forgetting to repeat the treatment. However, it is not always possible to use them if your dog can take off the collar. Dosed products are generally monthly treatments.

Not all metered products are equally effective. You should always check for ticks or fleas and change the product if necessary. Make sure that the product you choose protects you against parasites and insects alike. Frontline or Advantix drops and the Serestro collar are the most commonly used products.

Ivermectin-based prophylaxis

These are monthly treatments.  They protect our dog from filariasis and other parasites that may have infested our dog. These are meat-based treats to be given monthly in quantities proportional to the dog’s weight. One of the most widely used products is Cardotek.

The treatment is able to eliminate the larvae of Filariasis present on our Lagotto Romagnolo before they develop. Before starting these treatments it is recommended to carry out tests. The tests are indicated by the manufacturers themselves to avoid complications. If you interrupt or decide for the first time to carry out filariasis treatments on an adult dog, you should always seek the advice of your vet.