If you notice your puppy passing white, thin worms in their stool, it's a clear indication of a significant internal parasite infestation. Immediate deworming treatment is crucial for your puppy's health.
What to Do When a Puppy Passes Worms
The appearance of white, thin worms in a puppy's stool often signals a heavy internal parasite load. Common culprits include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Once your puppy is over one month old and weighs more than one kilogram, you should administer a pet-specific oral dewormer for immediate treatment. Even if your puppy hasn't been exposed to the outside environment, they can contract parasite eggs from their mother in utero. After birth, these eggs hatch and mature within the puppy, absorbing nutrients and hindering growth. In severe cases, this can cause parasitic gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like bloody diarrhea and vomiting. In such instances, you must immediately deworm the puppy and thoroughly disinfect their living environment.
How Long Does It Take for Deworming to Clear Worms in Puppies?
Most deworming medications only target adult worms. It typically takes 15 days or more for the body to completely eliminate all parasites. If your puppy has a diagnosed parasite infection, it's recommended to administer the initial dose of dewormer, followed by daily doses for three consecutive days. After 15 to 30 days, a follow-up veterinary check is advised to confirm that the worms have been eradicated. If no parasite eggs are detected, maintain a routine deworming schedule. The recommended frequency for internal and external parasite control varies. For internal parasites, deworming is typically recommended every one to three months. Common deworming medications often contain ingredients like milbemycin oxime and fenbendazole, which are effective against common parasites like roundworms and hookworms. Furthermore, ensure your puppy's diet consists of thoroughly cooked and safe foods, avoiding raw meat to reduce the risk of parasite transmission.