Section 9 of 10 · about 1 min read
Fleas, ticks, worms, lungworm and mites — what to look for, what to do and when to call the vet.
This course is for learning and does not replace your vet. In an emergency, call your vet or nearest emergency vet straight away.
Lesson 1
Parasites are common in the UK and can affect dogs of all ages. Puppies, seniors, pregnant or postpartum dams and dogs with a weakened immune system are at higher risk of complications. The ORLAGH’S approach: prevention should be routine, not reactive. Use products suited to your dog’s weight, age and lifestyle, never “guess dose”, and keep a simple log of what was given, when, and the next due date.
Lesson 2
Look for persistent scratching or biting at the skin, hair loss, scabs, “hot spots” and flea dirt — tiny black specks that turn reddish-brown when dabbed with water. Pale gums or weakness in puppies can mean anaemia. Treat every pet in the household, not just the itchy one, wash bedding on a hot wash, vacuum thoroughly (including sofa creases) and repeat the cleaning weekly for several weeks.
Lesson 3
Ticks are picked up in woodland, long grass and moorland, and can transmit disease. Use a tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers, part the hair and grasp the tick close to the skin, then pull steadily straight out (or twist, as the tool directs). Clean with pet-safe antiseptic and watch the site for swelling, discharge or heat. Never burn it, smother it in oil or Vaseline, or yank it — that can leave mouthparts behind.
Lesson 4
Roundworm is very common in puppies; tapeworm often comes from fleas or raw prey; hookworm and whipworm are less common. Signs include a pot belly, weight loss despite a good appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea, visible worms and scooting. Use a vet-approved wormer for their age and weight and pick up poo promptly. Lungworm, linked to slugs and snails, is serious: a persistent cough, breathing difficulty, lethargy or unexpected bleeding needs urgent vet care.
Lesson 5
Ear mites cause head shaking, dark crumbly ear debris and intense ear scratching. Sarcoptic mange causes severe itching, red skin, hair loss and crusting, often starting on the ears, elbows and belly. Both are uncomfortable and can be contagious, so vet treatment is recommended.
Put the steps for removing a tick in the right order.
Tiny black specks that turn reddish-brown when dabbed with water
If only one pet is itchy, you only need to treat that pet for fleas.
Burning a tick is a good way to make it let go.
Lungworm is linked to dogs eating slugs and snails or their trails.
With suspected lungworm, it’s fine to wait and see if the cough passes.
Scooting can be a sign of worms or of anal gland problems.
Score 70% or more to pass this section.
Question 1 of 8
