Why are parasites a greater risk in certain areas?

The chance that your dog will come into contact with parasites is higher in some areas than it is in others. Ticks and other parasitic organisms thrive in places that are hot and humid - America’s Southeast, for example, from Florida to Texas. The risk of contact is lower in places that are hot and dry, such as Utah and Nevada.

But no matter how low the statistical risk of contact, Mike Paul, Executive Director of the Companion Animal Parasite Council, says it never drops to zero: “we know it occurs in every single state. It’s just a far lower risk.”

Paul advocates a zero tolerance attitude, encouraging dog owners all across the country to use flea, tick, and other parasite-control products year-round.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

• previous: What are common parasites and how can they be prevented?
• next: What is ringworm and how can it be prevented?