How to Deworm a Puppy
A very common thing to see in puppies is worms in their stool. Do not be alarmed as it happens often. Your puppy will now need to be dewormed. This article will explain the signs and symptoms of worms in puppies and when you need to see a veterinarian.
There are many signs and symptoms that a puppy who has worms will display. Below is a list of common signs seen in puppies with worms.
- Bloating
- Upset stomach
- Lethargy
- Anxiety
- Vomiting
- Frequent excretion (potty)
If you suspect that your puppy has worms, it is best that you contact your veterinarian for a visit. Based on the signs that you tell your veterinarian, they may run tests to determine what worms your dog has. Most of the time, the veterinarian will start off testing with a stool sample. The sample will be looked at under a microscope to see if there are any worms in the poop. The common types of worms found in puppies include hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms.
There are many ways in which your veterinarian may deworm your puppy. Oral medications and/or shots may be administered to cover a wide range of internal parasites. These are the most common ways to deworm. Sometimes these methods may need to be repeated to ensure that all worms are killed. It is recommended that you start deworming your puppy around two to three weeks old.
There are ways that you can prevent worms. We recommend that you have your puppies checked for worms two to four times a year. You can also have your puppy wear a flea collar to help decrease the spread of harmful parasites. Lastly, keeping your yard clean of poop is a good way to decrease the spread as well.