Introduction
Parasites are more than just a nuisance. They can cause serious illness, long-term health problems, and even death if left untreated. In Texas, the risks are especially high because our warm climate allows parasites like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks to thrive almost year-round.
At Hub City Veterinary Clinic in Lubbock, we emphasize prevention as the best protection. With simple, consistent care, you can keep your pets safe from parasites and the diseases they carry.
Why Prevention Matters
Parasites affect pets in ways that range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Fleas cause itching, skin infections, and can transmit tapeworms. Ticks spread dangerous diseases like Lyme and Ehrlichia. Internal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, sap nutrients and can even spread to people.
Heartworm disease is one of the most serious concerns. Spread by mosquitoes, heartworms grow inside the heart and lungs, causing coughing, fatigue, and eventually heart failure if untreated. Treatment is costly and difficult, and advanced cases can be fatal. Prevention, however, is safe, simple, and far more affordable.
Common Parasites in Lubbock
Our region sees a wide variety of parasites that threaten dogs and cats, including:
- Heartworms transmitted by mosquitoes
- Fleas that infest pets and homes
- Ticks carrying blood-borne diseases
- Roundworms and hookworms picked up from contaminated soil or feces
Because of the climate in West Texas, these parasites are not just seasonal — they can be a problem at any time of year. That’s why we recommend prevention 12 months a year, without interruption.
How Prevention Works
Modern preventive products are safe, effective, and easy to use. Monthly oral or topical medications protect against fleas, ticks, and many intestinal parasites. Heartworm preventives are available as monthly tablets or as a convenient six-month injection.
At Hub City, we tailor recommendations to each pet’s age, health, and lifestyle. During annual exams, we also perform screening tests, such as a heartworm test, to ensure that prevention is working as expected. This approach gives families peace of mind and pets reliable protection.
What Owners Can Do at Home
Preventing parasites is a partnership between the veterinary team and families. At home, owners can help by:
- Giving preventive medications consistently and on schedule
- Reducing exposure to mosquitoes by avoiding outdoor time at peak hours
- Keeping yards clean to minimize parasite habitats
- Checking coats regularly for fleas and ticks after outdoor activities
By combining these habits with veterinary care, the risk of parasite-related illness drops dramatically.
Conclusion
Parasites are a constant presence in Texas, but they don’t have to threaten your pet’s health. Prevention is simple, safe, and effective — and it protects your entire family as well as your pets.
At Hub City Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to helping pets in Lubbock stay parasite-free all year long. If your dog or cat isn’t on prevention or is due for their annual screening, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. With consistent care, you can keep your pet healthy, comfortable, and protected every day of the year.
