Parasite Control For Pets in Melbourne

Prevent serious illnesses from fleas, ticks and heartworm.

Keep your pet healthy and comfortable year-round with effective parasite protection.

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Choose what suits your pet’s lifestyle, risk level, and your needs.

We offer a range of options, including:

Yearly injections for heartworm and flea/tick prevention
Monthly or 3-monthly spot-on treatments
Monthly or 3-monthly chews

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What are pet parasites?

Parasites are organisms that live on or inside your pet, feeding at their expense. These include intestinal worms, heartworm, fleas, ticks, ear mites, and mange mites. Certain parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can also pose health risks to humans if exposed.

Intestinal worms

Intestinal worms are something that most cats and dogs will suffer from at some stage in their lives but the good news is that with a regular deworming treatment plan can help.

We offer a variety of parasite control products and invite you to visit our team, who will help you choose the treatment that best fits your family’s needs. If you have difficulty administering tablets or spot-on treatments at home, we’re happy to assist with giving them to your pet here.

Heartworm

Heartworm can cause serious damage to the heart, lungs, and other organs, and can be fatal if left untreated. The larvae are transmitted through mosquito bites.

Heartworm is more common in northern Australia, but cases do occur in Melbourne. Treatment can be risky, requiring weeks of supervision and exercise restriction. Most parasite controls now include heartworm protection, and the annual injection offers year-round coverage without monthly dosing.

Fleas

Fleas are common in our local environment, and the best way to prevent an infestation is through regular treatment of all cats and dogs in your household.

Once fleas enter your home, their eggs can remain dormant for months before hatching and continuing the cycle, so consistent flea control is essential. Fleas can transmit flea tapeworm to your pet and often cause skin irritation and hair loss. While fleas primarily prefer animal hosts, they can also bite humans during household infestations.

Ticks

Ticks are quite common in Melbourne, especially in bushy areas near water, and are most active between September and March during the warmer months.

The most common ticks here (bush ticks and brown dog ticks) are generally harmless but can transmit diseases, while paralysis ticks, mostly found along the eastern coast, are increasingly appearing in Melbourne and Gippsland. Paralysis tick bites can cause paralysis, vomiting, respiratory distress, and even death.

FAQs

How often should I deworm my pet?

There are many deworming products available, ranging from monthly to three-monthly treatments. When deciding on the best worming protocol for your pet, several factors come into play, including their age, diet, lifestyle, companions, and even your preferred holiday destinations!

Our team is always happy to discuss your pet’s specific needs and help you choose the most suitable product for your family.

Can indoor pets get parasites too?

Indoor pets are at a lower risk of being exposed to parasites but are still susceptible. Worm eggs can be carried indoors on clothing, shoes and even from pests such as cockroaches.

Wildlife and rodents can introduce fleas to areas around your house which could cause an infestation.

What are the signs my pet has worms?

Pets may experience a variety of symptoms depending on the type of worm and level of infestation. Signs that your pet has worms may include:
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- Scooting
- Dull coat
- Potbelly appearance
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy

What to do if your pet has parasites?

If you suspect your pet has parasites, we’re here to provide the right treatment and guidance.
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While most parasites are easy to treat, it’s important to take extra precautions at home to prevent reinfection. This includes washing all bedding, promptly cleaning up any faeces, and making sure all pets in your household receive appropriate treatment.

Why choose Northside Vets?

We combine expert knowledge with a genuine love for animals.

Our experienced team stays up-to-date with the latest parasite control methods to ensure your pet receives safe, effective, and convenient tailored treatments.

We take the time to listen, educate, and support you every step of the way, making parasite prevention easy and stress-free for both you and your pet.