They pose a threat to our pets, our kids, and even us. While most of them are minuscule and often out of sight, they're one of the most common risks pet owners have to deal with. They're the parasite nasties that sneakily find their way to your pet and cause all kinds of disease. The good news is there are many pet parasite preventatives available that will keep you and your pet safe. Choosing the right protection plan can be confusing but our expert vets can guide you in selecting the most appropriate product for your pet. It's very important to know your nasties, and when you suspect they've infected your pet to get in touch with one of our experts. We've included some information below on the most common parasites to watch out for and some things you might not know about them. Come into clinic to get a parasite protection plan today! COMMON CULPRITS/REPEAT OFFENDERS Fleas Fleas are one of the most problematic parasites for pets, leading to incessant itching, discomfort, and allergic reactions. They can also transmit diseases and carry tapeworms, posing a dual threat. In addition, they can be challenging to diagnose, and a pet with flea allergy dermatitis may never actually be seen with fleas! Ticks There are several types of ticks in Australia, some of which are a nuisance, such as the bush tick, right through to the dangerous Paralysis Tick, which causes many fatalities each year. Paralysis ticks are a common parasite for those living near the eastern seaboard of Australia. It can take as little as one tick bite to result in muscle weakness, respiratory distress and secondary infections. Heartworm and Intestinal Worms Intestinal Worms Intestinal worms: affect pets' digestive systems, causing weight loss, vomiting, diarrhoea and anaemia. The most common intestinal worms in Australia are roundworm, tapeworm and hookworm. Normally pets become infected with intestinal worms by ingesting the eggs of the parasites, which can be found in contaminated soil, faeces, and