How to Get Rid of Hookworms in Puppies

Hookworms are a dangerous threat to dogs, but puppies in particular can suffer from anemia and iron deficiency and even be killed by these parasites. If your puppy or puppies exhibit signs of illness such as diarrhea, poor or no appetite, vomiting, weakness or emaciation, they may have hookworms or another condition and will need to be treated for it. While some puppies may only need medication for hookworms, others may require iron and nutritional supplements as well.

Things You'll Need

• Worm medication
• Veterinarian

Instructions

1. Take your puppy and a stool sample to your vet. Hookworms are impossible to see with the naked eye, so it will be necessary to have your vet examine the puppy's stool to confirm that he or she does have hookworms before beginning treatment.

2. Buy an oral de-worming medication for your dog. Your vet can prescribe one for you or you can purchase a type of your choice.

3. Use the hookworm treatment for as long as directed by your vet or the medication's packaging. Hookworm medications are taken orally and can be given to the puppy with his or her meals.

4. Give your puppy any iron or nutritional supplements recommended by your veterinarian to build his or her strength back up after having hookworms. Since hookworms can make puppies incredibly weak, it is important to keep your puppy well fed and watered.

Tips & Warnings

• If your puppy is malnourished or emaciated, a blood transfusion may be required. Talk to your vet about the severity of your puppy's hookworms.

References

• How to Get Rid of Hookworms
• Hookworms

Resources

• PetMD: Hookworms in Dogs