Worms and other parasites can cause serious health problems in dogs, leading to discomfort, weight loss, and even life-threatening conditions. As a responsible dog owner, it is essential to take proactive steps to prevent parasite infestations in your pet.
According to the Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center, in the United States, almost one-third (34%) of dogs are affected by gastrointestinal parasites. This percentage rises to 54% in the southeastern states. Roundworms (Toxocara canis, T. cati) and hookworms (Ancylostoma sp.) are prevalent in nearly all parts of the country. And the infection rates are much higher in younger animals.
In this article, we will explore some of the most effective ways to keep your dog worm-free.
Regular Deworming
Regular deworming is essential to keep your furry friend healthy and free from parasitic infestations. Deworming your dog involves giving them medication to get rid of any existing worms and prevent further infestations.
One of the most popular deworming medications is Heartgard for dogs. This medication is easy to administer and protects a range of parasites, including heartworms, hookworms, and roundworms.
Heartgard is available in chewable tablets that are given once a month. According to PetRx, a pet medication platform, Heartgard Plus effectively targets heartworm larvae so they do not grow into adults, which can lead to heartworm disease in dogs. PetRx adds that the medication can be administered to young dogs starting from 6 weeks of age without any minimum weight requirement, providing them protection against heartworm disease.
Dispose of Feces Properly
Proper disposal of your dog’s feces is crucial in preventing the spread of worms. When dogs defecate, they can leave behind worm eggs and larvae in the feces, which can contaminate the soil and infect other dogs.
To prevent this, always clean up after your dog and dispose of the waste in a sealed plastic bag. Do not leave the trash in your yard or public places. You can also bury it in a designated area away from any vegetable gardens or play areas.
This will help keep your yard and surrounding areas clean and reduce the risk of worm infestations.
Prevent Your Dog from Coming into Contact With Other Animals’ Feces
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), worm eggs or larvae passed in the feces of dogs and cats can contaminate an area. When these animals swallow dirt that contains worm eggs or larvae from feces, they can become infected.
Roundworms and hookworms can infect dogs and cats of any age, but younger animals are more susceptible. Puppies as young as 2 to 3 weeks old can have a high number of worms.
Another step in preventing your dog from getting infested with worms is to keep them away from other animals’ feces. Worm eggs can be present in the feces of other animals, and dogs can easily pick them up by sniffing or eating them.
You can keep your dog away from these areas by walking them on a leash and keeping them close to you. If you notice your dog showing interest in other animals’ feces, distract them with a toy or treat to redirect their attention. Additionally, teach your dog not to eat anything off the ground to further minimize their risk of ingesting worm eggs.
Control Fleas
Fleas are a common problem for dogs and can transmit tapeworms, which can cause health issues. Preventing flea infestations is key to keeping your dog worm-free. According to Healthline, many available products can eliminate fleas along with their eggs, larvae, and pupae, as well as prevent future infestations. Dual-prevention products that protect against both fleas and ticks can be useful, particularly if you live or often visit areas with grass or woods.
It’s crucial to stick to a schedule when using flea prevention products since some need to be reapplied monthly. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best flea-prevention product for your dog.
By controlling fleas, you can help reduce the risk of your dog developing a tapeworm infestation.
Keep Your Dog Away From Intermediate Hosts
Certain types of worms, like lungworms, require intermediate hosts to complete their life cycles, such as snails or slugs. Therefore, it’s important to keep your dog away from areas where these intermediate hosts may be found. These include gardens, ponds, and areas with standing water.
Additionally, discourage your dog from eating or playing with snails or slugs, as they may contain infectious larvae that can lead to worm infestations. Keeping your dog away from intermediate hosts and taking steps to discourage them from interacting with these creatures is an effective way to reduce the risk of worm infestations.
Regular Vet Check-Ups
Regular vet check-ups are essential for maintaining your dog’s health and preventing parasite infestations. During these check-ups, your veterinarian can perform fecal tests to detect any signs of worms or other parasites. They can also recommend a deworming schedule based on your dog’s individual needs and lifestyle.
Regular check-ups can also help catch any potential health problems early, giving you and your vet more time to address them before they become more severe. Additionally, your vet can recommend the best flea and tick prevention products to keep your dog free from parasites that can transmit worms.
Conclusion
Keeping your dog’s intestinal tract free of parasites is a challenge, but it can be met with diligent care and attention to detail. It is important to remember that even if you take all the necessary precautions, there may still be times when your dog gets sick. If this happens, don’t panic. Just call your vet.