Top 5 Recommended Dewormers for Dogs, Endorsed by Veterinary Professionals
In the world of canine health, intestinal worms are a prevalent issue, with more than 20% of dogs and 85% of dog parks in the United States hosting intestinal parasites [1]. These parasites can cause serious health problems for dogs and, in some cases, pose a risk to human health as well.
There are several common types of intestinal worms that affect dogs, including roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms, and lungworms.
**Roundworms** are the most common type, especially in puppies. They can be transmitted to humans and cause health issues [1][3]. **Tapeworms** are caused by ingesting infected fleas and typically do not cause severe symptoms but can lead to weight loss and digestive issues [1][2]. **Hookworms** can cause serious blood loss and are spread via skin contact or ingestion [1][3]. **Whipworms** are less common but can cause severe intestinal irritation and weight loss [1][4]. **Lungworms**, although not intestinal worms, are worth mentioning as they affect the lungs. They are caused by ingesting slugs and snails containing parasite larvae [1].
Fortunately, there are a variety of deworming medications available to treat these parasites. **Roundworms and Hookworms** are commonly treated with anthelmintic medications like fenbendazole, milbemycin oxime, and pyrantel pamoate [5]. **Tapeworms** are typically treated with praziquantel [5]. **Whipworms** often require a combination of medications, including fenbendazole and oxibendazole, due to their resistance to some treatments [5]. **Lungworms** treatment usually involves anthelmintics like fenbendazole and moxidectin [5].
It's important to note that some deworming products are effective for more than one type of worm, but products that are effective against flat-shaped worms like tapeworms are not effective against round-shaped worms, such as roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms.
In addition to treating intestinal worms, it's crucial to prevent reinfection. Most veterinarians recommend using year-round parasite protection to keep dogs healthy. Dewormers are available in a variety of forms, such as pills, chewable tablets, and liquids. Common active ingredients include Febantel or Fenbendazole, Ivermectin, Pyrantel Pamoate, and Praziquantel.
Heartworm is an internal parasite that lives in the blood vessels inside the lungs and heart. Dogs can get heartworms after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Preventative medications like ivermectin or milbemycin oxime are crucial to avoid infection. Some preventatives, like Heartgard Plus and Trifexis, also treat and control certain types of intestinal worms.
When selecting a dewormer, it's important to consider proper diagnosis, types of parasites, active ingredients, frequency and dosing, and parasite prevention. Always consult a veterinarian before starting any treatment for intestinal worms. They can provide accurate diagnoses and recommend the appropriate medications based on the type of parasite and the health status of the dog.
While natural remedies may be appealing, it's important to note that many naturally occurring plants and remedies can be toxic or harmful to pets. Therefore, it's best to stick to veterinary-prescribed medications for the treatment of intestinal worms.
In the field of canine health and wellness, understanding various medical-conditions like intestinal worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms, and lungworms, is crucial due to their prevalence and potential impact on a dog's health [1]. Science plays a significant role in developing medical treatments for these health problems, with a variety of deworming medications available, such as fenbendazole, milbemycin oxime, pyrantel pamoate, praziquantel, and others [5].
