Springtime: Essential Dog Deworming Guide

Common internal parasites that can affect dogs include roundworms, tapeworms, heartworms, hookworms, and coccidia.

Signs of internal parasite infections in dogs often include weight loss, poor growth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and blood in the stool. In severe cases, neurological symptoms such as seizures may also occur.

Common external parasites that may infest dogs are fleas, ticks, lice, and mites.

External parasites can lead to various skin conditions in dogs, often accompanied by intense itching, thickened skin, and crust formation.

Deworming Schedule:

Internal Deworming: Puppies can start their first deworming treatment around two weeks old. For puppies under two months, deworming should be done every two weeks until they are six months old, and then every three months thereafter.

External Deworming: The months of April to October are crucial for external deworming, with a recommendation to deworm monthly during this period.

The dosage of deworming medication is calculated based on the dog's weight. After administering the medication, some dogs may experience symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or lack of energy. It's important to consult with a veterinarian before and after administering the medication.

How to Deworm:

Internal Deworming:

Administer oral deworming medication.

Give the medication with or after the dog's meal.

External Deworming:

External deworming products are typically in the form of spoton treatments or sprays.

For sprays, apply the product against the direction of the dog's fur, ensuring to avoid the head area. It's best not to bathe the dog for three days after application to allow the medication to spread evenly across the body.

For spoton treatments, gently lift the fur behind the dog's neck and apply the medication in a straight line onto the skin.