Worms are a very
serious matter. I recently saw a litter of healthy Jack Russel puppies
die through roundworm infestation. Roundworms commonly cause ill thrift
or diarrhoea - in some cases the Toxocara even spreads to humans, especially
children. Endemic French Heartworm can cause coughing, bleeding and
nerve disorders. Tapeworms are linked with flea infestations, and some
cause illness in humans.
Fears over cost, or the risk of potential side effects, could lead owners
not to treat for worms. For adult dogs, the most common wormers are
pills or powders; these are inexpensive for small numbers of dogs. For
larger kennels the cost of worming can be more significant, but should be
weighed against the cost of an all-out infestation. Side effects from
medications are infrequant, but can include vomiting or diarrhoea.
You must treat bitches for worms in the non-mating season - never treat
a pregnant bitch with worming products. Once nursing, brood bitches
and litters should be treated at two weeks and five weeks and five weeks
post whelpinf. At my practice, puppies are treated every two
weeks untill 12 weeks old and then monthly untill six months old. Some
breeders carry out routine faecal screening of all puppies and breeding stock.
The frequency of treatment required depends on the dog's lifestyle. Dogs
that mix with others should be wormed at least every three months. More
sedentary dogs might be treated every three to six months. Bear in mind
that if you use combination flea/worm products this will probably reduce the
frequency of standard worm treatment required. Remember some products
run a small risk od side effects if combined.
reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not
to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis
of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of
any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
