Nearly all dogs will have fleas or worms at some point in their life. Left untreated, these parasites will make your pet unwell, so being able to spot the signs and administering regular treatment is crucial. Keep your dog fit and healthy with the following advice and guidance.
Most common signs of worms for dogs
There are five types of worms that affect dogs: heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Some of the these are easier to spot than others. However, the most common signs to look out for include worms in your dog’s faeces, an abnormally swollen stomach, coughing, reduced appetite, weight loss, and rubbing its bottom on the ground.
Most common signs of fleas for dogs
If your dog has a severe infestation, you should be able to spot fleas on your pet’s body as they move and jump around. Earlier indicators that your dog is infested with fleas include excessive itching or biting of the skin and increased restlessness. Other symptoms may include your dog shaking its head strongly and flea dirt (droppings) in its coat.
Treatments for worms and fleas
You can treat most cases of worms in dogs with medication, but you should consult your vet for recommendations on the best treatment, as this will depend on the type of worms your pet has. Flea treatments come in the form of pills, sprays, shampoos, and collars but once again, it’s best to use products that have been recommend by a professional.
How often should you worm and flea your dog?
It’s advisable to worm your dog approximately every months and de-flea dogs only when fleas are present. Before applying treatments, you should wait to your pet is calm and relaxed to help prevent undue stress.
By staying vigilant and looking for signs of worms and fleas, you can help make sure your pet feels good. For more tips and help on your furry friend, head to our
advice centre for dogs.
