Everyone enjoys seeing nature in our backyard. For the most part, birds, rabbits, squirrels, and the occasional deer are relatively harmless. However, there are some not often thought about threats present to our pets when wildlife is around. The most common issue we see in pets is parasites from wildlife. Things like fleas can be transmitted from squirrels and rabbits in the yard. Tapeworms are transmitted via fleas, so we may find tapeworms in our pets as well. Other intestinal parasites such as roundworm can be transmitted from ingesting wildlife. Raccoons carry a particularly bad form of roundworm that can be transmitted to our pets. Lastly, coccidia, a single cell parasite that dogs and cats can become infected with, is transmitted through feces from animals such as squirrels, geese, and deer. Other issues we can see with wildlife are less common but still may be of concern. Porcupine encounters will often result in a trip to the veterinarian, as quills that are not removed may migrate through the body and cause infection and other problems internally. Skunks may spray our pets, leaving us all with a rotten smell to deal with. Rabies and distemper viruses can both be carried and transmitted from wildlife to our pets. Leptospirosis is another disease carried by wildlife […]
Providing the best possible veterinary care for your pet.
Heritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
