NexGard SPECTRA® has launched a free interactive tool called PetGard Pro that helps dog and cat owners evaluate their pets' risks of parasitic infections. The tool also offers guidance on how owners can shield their pets and families from zoonotic diseases associated with certain parasites.
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Veterinary clinics are pivotal in educating pet owners about zoonotic risks and effective mitigation strategies. PetGard Pro is designed to assist veterinary staff in this educational role by providing engaging and relevant information.
The tool was developed with input from Dr. Vito Colella, a parasitologist at the University of Melbourne, and is grounded in contemporary knowledge about parasite risk factors and management recommendations.
PetGard Pro considers several guidelines in its assessments, including:
- Australian Paralysis Tick Guidelines (2024)
- Australian Companion Animal Zoonoses Guidelines (2021)
- ESCCAP (European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites) Guidelines (2022)
Risk evaluations are based on individual pet characteristics such as sex, age, geographical location, lifestyle, and behavior. Pet owners complete a brief questionnaire that takes only a few minutes, allowing the tool to generate a personalized risk assessment for key parasites.
The parasite risk assessment can be performed while pet owners await consultations, helping to streamline the process. The tool:
- Provides a tailored risk assessment that reflects both animal and human health considerations regarding dog and cat parasites, which clinic staff can review.
- Encourages conversations about parasite prevention during clinic visits, thereby enhancing care practices for pets and potentially boosting clinic business.
PetGard Pro generates a summary report for the pet, along with a detailed PDF that offers educational insights into parasite risks and advice on protective measures for pets and their families.