How to Prevent Worms in Dogs

Roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms are some of the common parasites that can infest your dog. They can cause diarrhea, weight loss or vomiting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dog Brushes
• Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
• Dog Shampoo
• Pooper Scoopers

1. Get puppies tested as early as three weeks after birth. They will often already be infested with worms and will need to be treated.
2. Take your dog in for an annual exam. Ask your veterinarian to recommend broad-spectrum preventive products. The newest products protect against roundworms, heartworms, ticks and fleas.
3. Control fleas (see related eHow 'Get Rid of Fleas'). Fleas can transmit tapeworm if your dog ingests them.
4. Avoid exposing your pet to stray animals or wildlife, as they are often carriers for fleas and other parasites. Dog parks that are not well maintained are a common source of parasites.
5. Prevent your dog from eating animal carcasses, such as those of birds, rabbits and rodents. Carcasses can carry immature worms that can then mature after your dog has ingested them.
6. Prevent your dog from eating feces'his own or that of other dogs and other animals. Contact with fecal material from another animal is the most common way for a dog to get intestinal parasites.
7. Take precautions when traveling with your dog. Before you go, check with your travel agent or veterinarian about risks at your destination.
8. Inspect your pet's anus and feces to spot signs of tapeworms. Tapeworm segments are small, white and flat, resembling grains of rice.
9. Have a stool specimen checked by your veterinarian to be certain that your dog remains parasite-free.

Tips & Warnings

• Parasite types vary, depending on locale and whether the animal is an indoor or outdoor pet.
• Infestations can be asymptomatic until triggered by stress.
• Avoid over-the-counter and home remedies. These are generally less effective and can also be dangerous.
• Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog shows any signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, tremors or poor coordina-tion) after administration of worm medication.