If you live in South Florida, you already know—our weather is paradise for us and for parasites. Warm temperatures, high humidity, and an abundance of wildlife mean that fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests are active nearly year-round. That’s why regular parasite testing is so important for keeping your pets healthy and happy.
At Gardens Animal Hospital, we know prevention is key—but testing is what helps us stay one step ahead.
More Than Just Prevention
Most pet parents know about flea and tick prevention or heart worm prevention medication, but regular testing is the extra layer of protection that makes all the difference. Even pets who are on preventatives year-round can still be exposed. That’s why veterinarians recommend routine parasite screenings—they help catch problems early before your pet shows any signs of illness.
Heart worm Testing: A Must in Mosquito Country
Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance here in South Florida—they can carry heart worms, which can cause serious heart and lung problems for dogs and cats. A simple heart worm test can detect infection long before symptoms appear.
Even if your pet takes monthly prevention, testing once a year ensures the medication is working properly. Skipping doses or changes in your pet’s health can sometimes reduce protection, so a quick test offers peace of mind.
Fecal Exams: The Invisible Invaders
Some parasites are sneaky—you’ll never see them, but they can still make your pet sick. Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia are common in Florida’s warm, damp soil.
That’s why Gardens Animal Hospital recommends fecal exams once or twice a year. By checking a small stool sample under the microscope, we can detect parasites before they cause weight loss, digestive issues, or spread to other pets (or people!).
Tick-Borne Illness Screenings: Tiny Bites, Big Problems
Ticks may be small, but the diseases they carry—like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis—can cause major health problems. Even indoor pets can pick up a hitchhiking tick during a quick trip outside.
Regular tick-borne illness screenings help catch these infections early, so we can start treatment before your pet feels the effects.
Trust the Team That Knows Florida Pets Best
At Gardens Animal Hospital, our veterinary team has years of experience protecting pets from the unique challenges of South Florida’s environment. We take parasite prevention and testing seriously because we know how quickly small problems can turn into big ones in our climate.
Whether you’re bringing in your pet for an annual checkup or just want to make sure they’re parasite-free, we’re here to help with gentle care, accurate testing, and clear advice every step of the way.
Keep Your Pet Protected Year-Round
Regular parasite testing isn’t just about prevention—it’s about peace of mind. With a few quick tests and the right prevention plan, your pet can stay healthy and parasite-free all year long.
If it’s been a while since your pet’s last test, please call us at Gardens Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment. Your furry family member will thank you!
