Fleas
Fleas aren’t just itchy pests — they can cause severe skin allergies, anemia, and even carry tapeworms. Once they infest your home, they multiply rapidly, making them extremely difficult to eliminate without proper prevention.
Florida fact: Fleas thrive in our sandy soil and warm climate, so even indoor pets are at risk.
Ticks
Ticks carry dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasmosis. These diseases can be debilitating and sometimes life-threatening. Because ticks are common in wooded areas, grass, and even suburban yards, protection is essential.
Florida fact: Ticks can be active all year long in our state, not just in summer.
Heartworms
Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, which are impossible to avoid in Florida. A single mosquito bite can transmit heartworm larvae, which develop into worms that live in the heart and lungs.
Heartworm disease is often fatal if untreated, and treatment is expensive, risky, and hard on pets. Prevention, on the other hand, is safe and affordable.
Florida fact: Jacksonville has one of the highest rates of heartworm-positive pets in the U.S. — year-round prevention is a must.
The Best Parasite Prevention Options We Recommend
At the Animal Clinic of Mandarin, we believe prevention should be simple, effective, and tailored to your pet’s needs. That’s why we carry veterinarian-trusted products that protect against multiple parasites in one dose:
Simparica Trio (for dogs): A once-monthly chewable that protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Great for all-in-one coverage.
Sentinel (for dogs): A chewable tablet that prevents heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and flea eggs. Often used in combination with another flea/tick product if needed.
Revolution Plus (for cats): A monthly topical that protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. The most complete protection available for cats.
Why Choose Vet-Approved Products?
While over-the-counter options exist, they often don’t provide full coverage, may be less effective, and in some cases can be unsafe. Prescription preventatives are proven, reliable, and backed by your veterinarian’s expertise.
Our Recommendation
In Florida, year-round protection is essential. Skipping even one or two months can leave your pet vulnerable to serious illness. Our team will help you select the best prevention plan based on your pet’s lifestyle, age, and health needs.
At the Animal Clinic of Mandarin, Dr. Pamela Kaiser and our team are here to keep your pets safe, healthy, and parasite-free. Call us today to discuss the best prevention plan and make sure your dog or cat is fully protected!