Local parasite prevalence and client adherence are key for deciding which parasite control product to prescribe
Kathryn E. Reif, MSPH, PhD, explains why CAPC prevalence maps and tick species awareness can guide veterinarians in choosing the most appropriate parasite control products based on local and travel-related exposure.
According to Kathryn E. Reif, MSPH, PhD, selecting the right parasite control strategy starts with knowing what parasites and associated diseases pose the greatest threat in a pet’s environment. Reif discusses how veterinarians can use regional data and owner behavior to guide product selection and improve long-term adherence and outcomes.
Transcript
Kathryn E. Reif, MSPH, PhD: We have a lot of different options available to us when it comes to parasite control products for our pets. Pet owners often want to know, “What product should I choose?” The first thing I want to emphasize is that most pet owners—truly the vast majority—are looking for a recommendation from their veterinarian.
Another helpful tool to guide these decisions is understanding the local parasite pressure. We can utilize resources like the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) prevalence maps to identify common parasites in our neighborhoods and regions. These maps are also helpful when considering travel plans; many pets accompany their owners on trips, and CAPC maps can provide insights into parasite risks in those destination areas as well.
For tick control specifically, I always encourage veterinarians to review the labels of the products they’re recommending. You want to make sure that the most common tick species in your area are actually covered. For instance, in the Northeast or Upper Midwest, Ixodes scapularis—the black-legged tick or deer tick—is the most relevant. In the Southeast, the lone star tick is one of the most aggressive and dominant species.
Knowing which tick species are prevalent in your area helps guide both product selection and disease awareness. Many tick-borne diseases—like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis—can present with similar clinical signs, so identifying the likely culprit is important.
Ultimately, when determining the best parasite control product for a given pet, the answer may not always feel definitive. The best product is the one that the pet owner will most use. Whether it’s a monthly or extended-duration product, consistent and proper use is what truly determines effectiveness.
