Dog Deworming

Ensuring the health and well-being of your dog is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner; however, one aspect of a dog’s health that is often overlooked is deworming. It is essential to your dog’s health that they are dewormed regularly, which is the process of treating your pet for parasites that can cause a range of health problems if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the importance of deworming your pet, the different parasites found in dogs, and how to choose the right dewormer for your pup. We will also cover the signs and symptoms of parasites, the impact of intestinal parasites on your pet’s health, and the difference between natural remedies and over-the-counter dewormers versus prescription medications. At Brookside Veterinary Hospital, we provide the highest quality and best service to pet owners, and we are here to help you take the best care of your pet.

Why is it Important to Deworm Your Dog?

Deworming is an essential part of preventative care for your dog. Worms can cause chronic gastrointestinal problems in your dog, leading to weight loss, pale gums, anemia, and severe diarrhea. Not only can worms affect the health of your canine, but some parasites are also “zoonotic,” which means they are transmissible from animals to humans. Therefore, deworming helps keep not only your pet safe but you and your family as well. Furthermore, many jurisdictions have made it illegal not to deworm your dog, which is another reason to deworm on a regular basis.

What Types of Parasites Are Found in Dogs and How They Are Treated?

There are two main types of parasites that can infect dogs: internal and external parasites. Internal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms live inside the body, usually within the dog’s intestines. External parasites like fleas, ticks, lice, and mites live on the body’s surface. The treatment for these parasites depends on what type they are but typically involves administering medication. For instance, dewormer medication is often recommended for treating roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms, while topical treatments may be used to get rid of fleas and ticks. Heartworms may require more aggressive treatment methods.

How Do Intestinal Parasites Impact the Health of a Dog?

Intestinal parasites can have a significant impact on your pet’s health. These parasites feed off your dog’s blood and nutrients, which can cause malnutrition, anemia, poor growth, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition to the physical symptoms mentioned above, parasite infections can also affect the vision of puppies if left untreated for too long. Moreover, some parasites are zoonotic, which means they can spread to humans from animals, making them a public health concern. The ASPCA offers additional insight into zoonotic diseases in dogs.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Intestinal Parasites in Dogs?

The signs and symptoms of intestinal parasites in dogs can vary depending on the type of parasite. Some common signs include loose stools, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, distended abdomen, visible worms in feces, and respiratory issues. If your pet is showing any of these signs or symptoms, it is important to take them to see a veterinarian as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. The American Kennel Club details the various symptoms of intestinal parasites in dogs, as well as the various types of parasites.

Would I be Able to See Worms in My Dog’s Stool?

It is possible to see worms in your dog’s stool. Roundworms, for example, look like strands of spaghetti, and tapeworms have segments that look like grains of rice. However, some parasites may be too small to see or may have died and broken up before passing in the stool, making them difficult to spot.

How Are Intestinal Parasites in Dogs Diagnosed?

The most common method of diagnosing intestinal parasites in dogs is through a fecal examination. During a fecal exam, your veterinarian will examine a sample of your dog’s stool under a microscope to check for the presence of eggs or larvae. Depending on the type of parasite, additional tests may be necessary.

Why is Early Detection and Diagnosis of Intestinal Parasites in Dogs Important?

Early detection and diagnosis of intestinal parasites in dogs is essential. As previously mentioned, some parasites can cause serious health problems if left untreated. The longer parasites are present in your dog, the more complicated the treatment becomes. Early diagnosis can also help prevent the spread of zoonotic parasites to other animals or humans.

What is the Difference Between Natural Remedies, Over-the-Counter Dewormers, and Prescription Medications to Treat Parasites in Dogs?

When it comes to treating intestinal parasites, there are three main options: natural remedies, over-the-counter dewormers, and prescription medications. Natural remedies for pet parasites are widely available, but their efficacy can be questionable and could potentially harm your pet. Over-the-counter dewormers are a popular choice due to their easy accessibility and relative affordability but may not be safe for all pets. Prescription medications for deworming pets are considered safe and effective by veterinarians. They can treat a broad spectrum of worms, and some can also prevent heartworms. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian before deciding on a treatment plan, as they will be able to recommend the best course of action for your pet’s specific needs.

How Do I Choose the Right Dewormer for My Dog?

When it comes to choosing the right dewormer for your pup, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll need to determine which parasites you’ll be targeting and if the dewormer covers all of them. Second, check the active ingredients used in the dewormer and make sure they are safe and suitable for your dog’s age, breed, size, and health history. Third, look for products that have been manufactured according to the highest standards of quality control protocols. Finally, natural remedies may be gentler on the body but may not be as effective against severe parasites compared to synthetically formulated products, so it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about which option is best for your pet.

Conclusion

Taking care of your pet is an important responsibility, and regular deworming is one of the many ways you can help keep them healthy. If you live in or near Gig Harbor, WA, contact us today at (253) 857-7302 to set an appointment or if you have any questions about dog deworming.