Nurse-led parasite control

Cats and dogs are exposed to a wide range of parasites such as Toxo-cara spp.., Echinococcus granulosus, Angiostrongylus vasorum and tick-borne diseases, which may cause significant disease in pets or present zoonotic risks to owners (Morgan et al, 2005; Overgaauw and van Knapen, 2013; Craig, 2014). Although there are few data on current UK disease incidence from these parasites, the consequences of infection are potentially severe. This article discusses some of these clinical syndromes and risk factors, as well as the role of veterinary nurses in assessing this risk, and developing subsequent parasite-control plans.

Strategies to limit parasitic disease rely on a combination of practical control measures and preventative drug treatments; these form the basis of parasite-control protocols for individual pets. Parasite-control programmes are becoming increasingly popular and important as treatment options and potential parasite threats increase. Parasite-control programmes allow for bespoke advice based on regional risk and lifestyle of the pet. Asking questions surrounding lifestyle, previous treatment adverse effects, and owner preferences will also help to maximise compliance, and therefore the effectiveness of any recommended treatment. The collection of information required to formulate a parasite-control plan is a team effort and the veterinary nurse plays a vital role.