7 Ways To Treat Dog Parasites

Are you concerned your dog may have parasites? Don’t worry- it’s common, and many treatment options are available. Parasites can cause various health issues in dogs, including skin irritation, anemia, and diarrhea. 

To keep your dog healthy and comfortable, identify and treat parasite infestations as soon as possible. From medicated shampoos to monthly preventatives, this article will discuss various options to find the one that works best for you and keep your pup healthy. With that being said, here are seven reliable ways to treat dog parasites.

7 Ways To Treat Dog Parasites

1. Grooming

Dealing with dog parasites can be a hassle, but you can do a few things to ensure your pup stays happy and healthy. Grooming is an essential first step in treating parasites. Regular brushing will help remove pet dander and any eggs that may have been laid on their fur. You should also regularly inspect your pup for fleas and ticks.

Additionally, you should ensure you keep up with any flea or tick medication required by your veterinarian. It will not only help prevent infestations but can even help treat existing ones.  

Furthermore, always practice good hygiene when it comes to your pup. Wash your dogs’ bedding often and ensure they get the proper nutrition to maintain strong defenses against potential parasites.

2. Natural Remedies

It’s worth noting that not all parasites can be resolved with a trip to the vet. Fortunately, you can use some natural treatments. Apple cider vinegar is a great place to start. Combine one tablespoon of apple cider with eight ounces of water and add it to your dog’s food daily. Doing this method will help them ward off certain parasites. 

You can also use garlic because of its anthelmintic qualities, which can help keep worms and other parasites at bay. Add powdered garlic or whole cloves to your pup’s meal once a day for two weeks for natural parasite prevention.

Lastly, ensure you feed your pup plenty of fiber-rich foods, such as pumpkin, spinach, and sweet potatoes. These foods contain natural remedies for intestinal worms and other parasites that your canine companion may be dealing with.

3. Flea And Tick Collars

Keeping fleas and ticks away from your beloved canine can be a challenge. Luckily flea and tick collars can help. Generally speaking, flea and tick collars work to repel fleas by releasing a gas or chemical into your pet’s fur, which then deters fleas from settling into their coat. 

Although flea and tick collars can offer some protection from fleas, they don’t provide 100% coverage against these parasites. For this reason, you should monitor your pup for signs of infestation. As with any flea prevention, always consult your veterinarian before using one. They can recommend the best flea and tick collar for your pet’s particular needs. Also, note that these collars should not be used on puppies and small dogs.

4. Shampoo

Using specially formulated shampoos can help treat various parasitic infections in dogs, including fleas and ticks. Regularly using a pet-safe shampoo for your pup will help maintain their healthy coats and remove parasites from their fur. 

Some medicated shampoos contain specific ingredients that work against parasites, such as Pyrethrin, Permethrin, or Fipronil. So, if you suspect your dog has parasites, speak with your vet, as they can recommend the best product for your pet’s needs.

5. Regular Vet Checkups

Regular vet checkups are an effective way to treat and prevent dog parasites. Not only does it provide peace of mind for pet owners that their dog is healthy, but vets can also diagnose any existing parasite problems early on and recommend suitable medications or treatments. This can help avoid more severe infestations requiring more potent medicines or surgery. 

While taking preventive measures, such as reducing contact with other animals, deworming pills, and good hygiene practices, are essential in controlling parasites in dogs. Still, regular vet checkups offer a valuable tool in the fight against parasite problems.

6. Deworming

It would be best to watch out for parasites in your dog’s system, as they can cause numerous issues. Fortunately, there are several different methods of treating them, ranging from visits to the veterinarian to over-the-counter solutions depending on the infestation type. Deworming your puppy is one of the most common treatments that involves giving your pet a chemical that helps ward off parasites. 

Plenty of products available come in pills, liquid, and patch forms. But consult your vet first to determine which might be best for your pup. But consult your vet first to determine which might be best for your pup. Proper medications are usually vital in helping clear any parasitic infection and keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.

7. Preventive Medication

One of the most efficient methods of treating dog parasites is preventative medication. Common parasites seen in dogs, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms, can be prevented with this treatment. Choosing the correct preventive medication strategy for your dog is best discussed with your veterinarian.   

In addition, parasites that have become lodged in your dog’s fur or skin can be removed with regular grooming and bathing. 

Conclusion

Grooming helps stimulate good skin health, which can limit the ability of parasites to take hold in the first place. Take your dog to the vet for an annual checkup, and if you see any signs of parasites, don’t hesitate to bring them in for treatment. Vets can recommend the best treatment option based on the specific parasite and your dog’s overall health. Establish a deworming routine and use preventative medication.