How do I treat worms in my dog?

How do I Treat Worms in my Dog?

Having a pet dog is a great way to stay active, feel less stressed and even live longer. But just like any other pet, there is the risk of illness or disease, and one of the most common ailments faced by dogs is a type of parasite known as worms. So, how can you treat worms in your dog?

Signs & Symptoms of Worms in Dogs

The most common signs and symptoms of worms in dogs include the following:

Weight Loss: Losing weight without explanation or intentional dieting.

Visible Worms: There might be visible worms in the stool, vomit or around the anus.

Lethargy: Low energy levels, difficulty exercising and often sleeping too much.

Coughing: A dry, hacking cough often with no other sign of illness.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Worms in Dogs

If you suspect your pet might have worms, the best way to find out for sure is to take a stool sample to your vet for a microscopic examination. If your dog does have worms, the vet will prescribe a medication to kill them, such as pyrantel pamoate or Panacur. Depending on the type of worms, the vet may recommend a second dewormer as a follow-up.

Your vet may also recommend giving your dog vitamins and minerals as a supplement to help them stay healthy. Additionally, they may suggest you practice regular worming prevention and veterinarian check-ups to help keep your pet worm-free in the future.

Preventing Worms in Dogs

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to help prevent your dog from getting worms in the first place.

Stick to a regular worming schedule – at least every three to six months is recommended.

If you have a multi-pet household, keep their diets separate.

Stay up-to-date on outdoor flea and tick treatments.

Encourage good hygiene habits. For instance, make sure they are not licking any contaminated surfaces.

Keep their living area clean.

Treating worm infections in your dog is not a one-and-done affair. Regular check-ups and preventative measures are necessary to keep your pet healthy and worm-free.

With these tips and the help of your vet, you can help ensure your pet remains happy and healthy.