Deworming Services for Pets

Dogs and cats are susceptible to parasites like worms, regardless of how much time they spend indoors. Sometimes you suspect a worm infection but more than likely, you won’t. Worm infections can be difficult to identify since many are undetectable to the naked eye. Deworming is the best way to remove all worms, seen and unseen.

Is deworming medication effective?

Deworming is the most effective way to remove intestinal parasites. The alternative, a parasite infection, can be detrimental to your dog or cat’s health. Even though it could be tempting to opt out of deworming when your dog or cat doesn’t have symptoms of a parasite infection, we don’t recommend doing this. Many dogs and cats are asymptomatic until an infection worsens. It’s better to get them dewormed, even as a preventive measure. Some signs of internal parasites include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloated or potbelly
• Weight loss
• Scooting
• Visible worms in the feces

How are worms transmitted?

Some worms, like roundworms, are transmitted from your dog or cat’s mother before birth or while they’re nursing. Others, like whipworms and hookworms, are passed on through feces. They could be passed on if your dog or cat ingests the feces of an infected animal. Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas. Many of these intestinal parasites are zoonotic, which means they can be transmitted to humans. Deworming can prevent serious health issues for your dog/cat as well as your entire family, especially pregnant people, immunocompromised people and children.

When is the best time to administer a dewormer?

Our veterinary team will provide you with the best schedule for deworming your dog/cat. For example, puppies must be dewormed more regularly than adult dogs. This medication is typically administered orally or through an injection biweekly from 2-8 weeks, then again at 6 months and 1 year old. If you have questions about deworming your feline or canine companion, please contact us at 613-384-0986.