Canine Parasite Screening & Prevention in Anderson, SC

The Best Defense Against Parasites Is Consistent Prevention

At Walker Canine Care, we understand that your dog’s health and comfort mean everything. As Anderson’s only canine-exclusive veterinary clinic, our focus is entirely on helping dogs live healthier, longer lives through personalized wellness and parasite prevention. Led by Dr. Jackson Walker, our team provides gentle, thorough care designed specifically for dogs of all breeds and ages.

South Carolina’s warm, humid climate allows parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms to thrive all year long. That’s why year-round screening and prevention are essential for every pet. Call our office or request an appointment today to keep your dog safe from parasites and the diseases they can carry.

What Are the Most Common Parasites in Dogs in Anderson, SC?

In the Anderson area, several internal and external parasites pose serious health risks to dogs.

Internal parasites include:

• Heartworms, transmitted by mosquitoes and capable of causing heart failure if untreated
• Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms, which can lead to digestive issues, anemia, and nutrient loss
• Giardia and Coccidia, microscopic organisms that cause diarrhea and dehydration

External parasites include:

• Fleas, which cause itching, allergic dermatitis, and can transmit tapeworms
• Ticks, including the Lone Star, American Dog, and Black-Legged tick species common to the Upstate region. They can spread diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Routine testing and prevention help identify and manage these threats early, before they compromise your dog’s health.

How Often Should My Dog Be Screened for Heartworms and Intestinal Parasites?

Every dog should be tested for heartworms and intestinal parasites at least once a year, even if they are consistently on prevention. Puppies and senior dogs may require more frequent screenings.

At Walker Canine Care, our in-house laboratory provides fast and accurate fecal and heartworm test results, ensuring your dog receives timely treatment if needed. Parasite screenings are part of our comprehensive wellness visits, which are designed to catch health issues early.

Is Year-Round Parasite Prevention Important in Anderson’s Climate?

Absolutely. Anderson’s mild winters and consistent humidity make the region ideal for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes to remain active all year. Seasonal treatment simply isn’t enough.

Walker Canine Care creates customized prevention plans based on your dog’s age, breed, and lifestyle. We help you choose safe, effective products for year-round parasite protection, ensuring your pet is covered in every season.

What’s the Difference Between Internal and External Parasites?

Internal parasites live inside your dog’s body and affect organs such as the intestines and heart. These include worms and protozoa, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

External parasites live on your dog’s skin or coat, causing itching, sores, and irritation. Fleas and ticks also transmit dangerous infections that can affect both dogs and humans.

Both types can spread easily, especially in multi-pet homes, making prevention and regular screening essential for every dog in your household.

What Factors Increase Parasite Risk for Dogs in Anderson, SC?

Several factors can raise your dog’s risk of parasite exposure:

• Breed and coat type: Thicker coats can hide ticks and make infestations harder to detect
• Lifestyle: Dogs that spend time outdoors, at boarding facilities, or around other dogs have greater exposure
• Geographic areas: Proximity to wooded trails, parks, or lakes raises mosquito and tick risk

Our team at Walker Canine Care designs prevention plans based on your dog’s environment, ensuring protection tailored to their unique needs.

What Are the Signs That My Dog Might Have Parasites?

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment right away:

• Diarrhea, vomiting, or scooting
• Weight loss or a dull, rough coat
• Lethargy or pale gums
• Visible worms in stool or small “rice-like” segments from tapeworms
• Excessive scratching, licking, or ear irritation

Because parasites can cause internal damage before symptoms appear, routine testing is the safest way to keep your pet healthy.

What Happens If My Dog Tests Positive for Parasites?

When a parasite is detected, Walker Canine Care develops a treatment plan based on the specific infection.

• Intestinal worms are treated with oral or injectable deworming medication
• Heartworms require specialized therapy, which can take several months but is highly effective
• Fleas and ticks are eliminated using modern oral or topical preventatives

Our goal is to provide treatment that is safe, effective, and comfortable for your pet. Early detection always leads to a faster recovery and fewer complications.

What Are the Risks of Not Doing Parasite Screening and Prevention?

Delaying or skipping parasite prevention can lead to serious and sometimes fatal consequences.

• Heartworm disease can result in heart failure or death
• Intestinal worms cause chronic digestive issues and malnutrition
• Flea and tick infestations can lead to skin infections and disease transmission
• Some parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, can infect humans

Prevention is always safer, simpler, and less expensive than treatment.

How Much Does Parasite Screening Cost for Dogs in Anderson, SC?

The cost of parasite screening depends on your dog’s age, size, and the types of tests needed. Many pet owners choose to include testing with their annual wellness exam for added value and convenience.