Use of malononitrile compounds for protecting animals from parasites

The present invention provides uses of aryl alkyl malononitrile compounds of formula (I), or veterinarily acceptable salts thereof, for controlling and preventing parasite infestations in animals. The invention also provides methods for controlling and preventing parasite infestation in animals comprising administering an effective amount of at least one aryl alkyl malononitrile compound of formula (I), or a veterinarily acceptable salt thereof, to the animal.