Does Dog Deworming Require Fasting? A Quick Guide

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Do You Need to Fast Your Dog Before Deworming?

The answer is a resounding no! Generally, whether it's for internal or external deworming, there's no need to fast your dog. However, it's advisable to wait 12 hours after your dog has eaten before administering the deworming medication. This allows for some digestion to take place, leaving less food in the stomach, which can make the deworming process more effective. Plus, if your dog is dewormed on an empty stomach, the medication can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing vomiting. Additionally, to maximize the effectiveness of the deworming medication, you might consider keeping your dog fasting for a couple of hours postadministration.

How Often Should You Deworm Your Dog?

Dogs can host a variety of internal parasites, such as roundworms and whipworms, which are quite common. However, deworming should be tailored to your dog's age to avoid potential drug toxicity.

For puppies, it's recommended to deworm every two months. For adult dogs, a deworming schedule of every four months is typical. If your dog regularly consumes raw or frozen meats, you may need to deworm more frequently, such as every three months. Remember, during pregnancy, lactation, vaccination, or illness, deworming should be avoided as it can negatively impact your dog's health, and during pregnancy, the health of the puppies as well.

It's also crucial to consider your dog's weight and overall health when determining the dosage of deworming medication. A dosage that's too low may not be effective, while one that's too high can be harmful to your dog's life.

Remember, after deworming, it's normal for dead parasites and eggs to be excreted in your dog's feces. Some dogs with weaker stomachs or poor constitutions might exhibit symptoms like vomiting or lack of energy. If diarrhea occurs, it's best to consult a veterinarian. For more information on deworming your dog, you can read our article "How to Administer Deworming Medication to Your Dog?".

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