Correct Dosage & Administration of Dog Deworming Medica

Typically, puppies are already infested with parasites like roundworms while in their mother's womb, leading to their presence at birth. These parasites, such as roundworms, can infect the puppies through the placenta and be carried into the world from the very beginning. After birth, puppies can become infected with parasites through nursing, licking, and contacting the ground.

Parasites like tapeworms, hookworms, and flukes often infect dogs through contact with the environment. It's common for puppies, who often live in groups, to pick up these parasites. Responsible sellers often deworm their puppies before they are 35 days old, and again at around 45 days. Around the 60day mark, it's usually the responsibility of the new owners to deworm their pets.

However, many sellers do not deworm their dogs properly. At around 2 to 3 months of age, when puppies are weaned and lose their mother's immunity, they are particularly susceptible to parasitic infections. This can lead to diarrhea, commonly referred to as "flipper," which is a sign of internal parasitic enteritis. This condition is usually caused by roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and sometimes coccidia.

Due to their narrow intestinal tracts, puppies can suffer from diarrhea, weight loss, and in severe cases, vomiting worms. Their tongues may appear white, and they may show signs of weakness, loss of appetite, or a constant feeling of hunger despite eating a lot. Sometimes, they may have no interest in food, appear bloated, and look unusually fat. However, this is often due to a full belly of worms. They may arch their backs, have frequent diarrhea, rough and dull coats, and appear dry. Their weight may decrease daily, and they may lose vitality, become lazy, have weak limbs, and be prone to drowsiness. If these symptoms are present, it's important to deworm your puppy internally.

It's best to administer deworming medication one to two hours after dinner, without food. For puppies, medications like Bayer and Canine Heartgard are recommended. It's not advisable to use both internal and external dewormers at such a young age, as they can cause unnecessary side effects. Puppies should start using combined dewormers around 4 months old, when their immune systems are stronger. For younger dogs, use specific deworming medications like Frontline, and always follow the instructions carefully, avoiding excessive dosages.

External deworming is crucial as many diseases are transmitted through external parasites, some of which are zoonotic. It's important not to take external deworming lightly.

Dogs, who were once primarily in group settings, are prone to parasitic infections, with fleas and ticks being common culprits. These can easily lead to zoonotic diseases. If you notice your dog constantly scratching or biting at their skin, it could be a sign of flea infestation. Fleas can lead to skin conditions like dermatitis, fungal infections, ear mites, and generalized itching.

Ticks, once attached, can feed on a dog's blood with ferocity, swelling to hundreds of times their original size in one night. If a dog is infested with ticks, it can lead to severe anemia and, in some cases, lifethreatening conditions. Therefore, external deworming is a necessary part of pet care.

External deworming medications come in various forms. It's best not to use combined internal and external dewormers on young puppies, as this can cause unwanted side effects. Puppies should start using separate dewormers, such as Frontline, around 4 months old, when they have stronger immune systems. Always use these medications as directed and avoid overuse.