Indoor Dog Needs Deworming? Yes, Here's Why!

1. Why Deworming at Home?

Our furry friends are naturally curious and love to explore, which is a quintessential part of their nature. Even if they've been cooped up at home for days, they remain endlessly fascinated, meticulously cleaning every nook and cranny of the house.

However, if unwanted pests find their way into your home, your pets might inadvertently ingest their eggs while on their adventures. Once infected, these parasites can pose a significant threat to their health, robbing them of nutrients, lowering their immunity, and potentially causing a range of unpleasant symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, itchy skin, and hair loss.

Common habitats for parasites in a household include air conditioning vents, drains, balconies, doors and windows, flower pots, mats, and carpeted areas.

Even when pet owners take precautions, parasites can still hitch a ride on your shoes when you go out. While they may not develop on you, your pets are their ultimate target.

2. The Myth of Complete Parasite Elimination with Daily Disinfection

While pet disinfectants are commonly used in households to kill viruses, they are not very effective against parasites like mites. Moreover, parasites reproduce rapidly and can spread through various means, making it nearly impossible to ensure a 100% clean environment at all times.

For instance, an adult flea can lay up to 4050 eggs per day. If you spot just one adult flea on your pet, it could mean there are already around 10 flea eggs, 7 larvae, and 2 pupae on them.

3. How to Check for Parasites on Your Pet

Follow the "Five Checks" principle:

1. Inspect the fur: Look for red spots or swelling under the hair.

2. Check for dandruff: Gently brush your pet's fur and look for dirty black specks falling out.

3. Examine the feces: If your pet has parasites, you might see worms or eggs in their stool.

4. Look at the abdomen: If your pet is eating a lot but remains thin, and their belly swells, it might indicate internal parasites.

5. Observe their mood: A lack of energy and an increased frequency of scratching can be signs of parasites.

Remember, just because you can't see them doesn't mean your pet is free of parasites. Keep a close eye on your furry friend's health.

4. Regular Deworming for Your Furry Companions

While deworming medications typically target adult worms, eggs can survive and mature into adults over time. To prevent your pet from suffering from parasites, it's crucial to perform regular internal and external deworming.

External deworming is usually done with spoton treatments, which are applied monthly. Some treatments can deworm both internally and externally, making them suitable for pets that don't often go outside. However, for those that do, it's best to use a dedicated external dewormer.

When applying the treatment, make sure the fur is dry and gently pull it back to expose the skin. Apply the medication to the skin, ideally on the neck or back, as these areas have more sebaceous glands, which help distribute the product throughout the body. After the liquid has dried, your pet is ready to go.

Internal deworming is usually done with oral medications, and the frequency of use depends on the product's instructions. You can hide the pill in a small amount of canned food to encourage your pet to eat it. For pets that refuse to eat, consult a professional or a veterinarian and use a syringe to administer the medication.

Proper administration: Place the pill in the syringe, ensuring it's properly aligned. Open your pet's mouth and aim for the throat, then quickly push the medication in. It should be done in about 0.5 seconds.

There are also deworming products that can be used for both internal and external purposes. Always read the instructions before use and follow the recommended dosage.

√ Important Notes:

1. Feeding on an empty stomach can prevent your pet from vomiting after taking the medication.

2. Check the product instructions, as some external dewormers require avoiding bathing for 3 days before and after application.

3. Some pets may experience symptoms like loss of appetite or vomiting after deworming, which usually resolves within 12 days. If symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

4. Pregnant dogs and cats should not be dewormed. It's recommended to deworm them before pregnancy.

Parasites like fleas and ticks reproduce quickly. During the pandemic, it's essential to keep your living environment clean, especially in corners and crevices. Ensure your pet's toys, bedding, and other items are kept clean, and let your pet enjoy the sun to maintain a hygienic environment.