Finding The Right Dewormer For Your Dog

Finding The Right Dewormer For Your Dog

Deworming is a normal part of keeping your dog both healthy and happy. As a new dog parent, it might be a bit confusing the first time around since there are so many products on the market.

Before you go out and buy any dewormer, it’s important to understand why this is necessary and how dogs end up with worms in the first place. All this information will help you to make a better decision.

What are worms and where do they come from?

Worms are parasites that infect dogs. This happens because dogs spend a lot of time outdoors in the dirt and rummaging in poop and garbage where worms live. Puppies tend to get worms from their moms as they pass through before birth or during nursing. Dogs can also get worms from mosquito bites and fleas.

The main types of worms dogs contract live in their intestines namely roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Heartworms live in their hearts, lungs and blood vessels.

Symptoms

If your dog contracts worms, he/she may experience certain symptoms depending on the parasitic load (the number of worms present) and age. Ideally, worms are expelled through vomit or in stool. If this does not happen, it can lead to:

  • Weight loss
  • A swollen belly
  • Scooting (dragging their butt across the floor)
  • A dull coat
  • Digestive issues
  • Lethargy
  • Coughing or difficulty breathing

Deworming

Deworming acts as both treatment and prevention. It kills worms present in the body and prevents worms from growing. This usually takes place as soon as possible, every two weeks until a puppy is 12 weeks of age. After that, puppies are dewormed monthly until they are 6 months of age as puppies are more susceptible to worms than adult dogs. Adult dogs are given preventive medicine every three months.

Deworming medicines are available over-the-counter, however, you should consult your vet before purchasing any brand. Usually, prescription dewormers are more effective and are much safer. They come in topicals, chewables, and liquids, and are suited to different lifestyles. Choosing a dewormer should be a serious consideration, and you should do proper research before giving anything to your dog.

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