4-H Dog Showmanship Practice Test

Heartworms are classified as internal parasites because they live within the dog's bloodstream and heart, causing significant health issues. They are transmitted through mosquito bites and can affect the cardiovascular system, whereas external parasites, like fleas, ticks, and mites, reside on the surface of the animal's body. Fleas and ticks attach to the skin to feed on the animal's blood, while mites often inhabit the skin and can lead to conditions like mange. This distinction between internal and external parasites is crucial in understanding how to manage and treat them effectively in pets.