FAQ: Health for dogs

Not completely. Products greatly reduce the risk: some repel ticks, others kill them after they attach, but a tick may still latch on briefly. So even with protection, it is worth checking the dog and watching how it is.

In some countries there are vaccines for dogs against certain tick-borne diseases, but they do not replace antiparasitic protection. Whether such a vaccine is available and worthwhile for your dog is best asked of a vet.

Usually not directly from the dog, but a dog can bring ticks into the house, and they can then attach to people. So after walks check not only the dog but yourself too. Tick protection for the dog also lowers the risk for the household.

It depends on the type: some drops and collars reach full protection only after a few days, while tablets usually start working sooner. The package leaflet gives the exact time. If you are planning a trip to the woods or countryside, apply the product in advance.

Yes. Ticks are found in city parks, squares, roadside grass, yards and gardens, not only in forests. So dogs that only walk in town need protection too. Be especially careful in tall grass and along the edges of bushes.

In other countries, especially in southern Europe, dogs face parasites and diseases that are rare in Lithuania, such as those spread by mosquitoes and sandflies. Some countries also have their own entry requirements. Discuss protection and documents with a vet well before the trip.

It is not recommended. Repellents for people have not been tested on dogs, the dog licks them off, and some ingredients can be harmful to it. Use only antiparasitic products registered for dogs and follow their labels.

Yes. Recovering from babesiosis does not usually give lasting immunity, so a dog can fall ill again. After the illness, constant tick protection and close attention to the dog's wellbeing during tick season are especially important. Discuss a protection plan with a vet.

Many collars are water-resistant, but frequent swimming can shorten how long they work. Some labels say to remove the collar before swimming, because the active ingredient can harm aquatic life. For a dog that swims a lot, it is worth discussing other forms of protection with a vet.

Even a dog that is seldom outside can pick up fleas or ticks on a short walk, in a stairwell or from other animals, and people can bring fleas into the home too. Such a dog may need a different protection plan, which a vet can help put together.

Yes. The flea species most often found on dogs also lives on cats, and hedgehogs, foxes or other animals visiting the yard can leave fleas behind. So protect all the pets in the household at the same time, each with a product made for its species.

No. Cat and dog products differ in active ingredients, amounts and weight ranges, so a dog may not get proper protection or may suffer side effects. Use only a product made for dogs and suited to your dog's weight.

There is no single answer: how often depends on the dog's age and lifestyle, whether it eats raw meat, hunts, or spends time with children or other animals. Puppies are usually dewormed more often than adult dogs. A vet can help you set up a personal plan.

Possible signs include worms or worm segments in the faeces or around the anus, diarrhoea, vomiting, weight loss, a pot belly in puppies, a dull coat or scooting along the floor. Often, though, the dog looks perfectly healthy. If you suspect worms, see a vet.

Dogs are given tablets, pastes, suspensions and some spot-on products that also act against worms. Products differ in which worms they cover, so not every one suits every case. Some are prescription medicines — a vet will choose the right one.

Yes, puppies are often infected with worms from their mother, so vets start deworming them early and repeat it more often than in adult dogs. A vet sets the right product and schedule, often together with the vaccination plan.

Many tablets are flavoured to appeal to dogs, so lots of dogs eat them on their own or with a bit of food. Whether to give it with food or on an empty stomach is stated in the package leaflet. Make sure the dog has really swallowed the tablet and not spat it out.

Some dog worms, such as roundworms and some tapeworms, can infect people too, especially children. Regular deworming, prompt pickup of faeces and washing hands after handling the dog and before eating all reduce the risk.

Many vets advise deworming a dog before vaccination, because parasites can weaken the body. A vet will say exactly when to do it and which product to use when setting up the vaccination plan.

Yes, worms very often cause no visible symptoms, especially in adult dogs. That is why vets recommend regular deworming or periodic faecal tests rather than waiting for signs to appear.