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How Often Should You Worm Your Dog?

Jak często odrobaczać psa?

Keeping our four-legged friends healthy requires regular preventive care from their owners, including worming. Worming is a key part of preventing and controlling parasites in animals. In this article the Zviropolis Veterinary Centre in Warsaw answers the question: how often should you worm your dog?

Why is worming important?

As our dogs become an integral part of the family, so does our responsibility for their health. Parasites that can take up residence in a dog’s body not only affect its health but can also pose a risk to people. That is why it is important to worm your pet regularly. Parasites in dogs can lead to serious health problems such as: 

  • weight loss, 
  • diarrhoea, 
  • anaemia, 
  • and in some cases even death.

How often should we worm a dog?

The answer depends on the dog’s age, lifestyle and general state of health. 

  • Puppies should be wormed every 4 weeks until 6 months of age, and then every 3 months for the rest of their lives. This is because puppies are particularly susceptible to parasitic infections.
  • Adult dogs should be wormed at least once every 3 months. However, if your dog is regularly in contact with children or other dogs, or often spends time in public places (parks, playgrounds and so on), monthly worming is recommended.
  • Older dogs should generally be wormed every 3 months, unless they have health problems that may make them more susceptible to parasitic infections.

Remember that even if your dog is wormed regularly, there is always a risk of parasite infection. So it is important to keep a regular eye on your pet and report any worrying symptoms to your vet.

What are the symptoms of a parasitic infection?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of parasite, but some of the most commonly seen are:

  • loss of appetite,
  • diarrhoea,
  • vomiting,
  • weight loss,
  • changes in behaviour (e.g. lack of energy)
  • shortness of breath, 
  • bleeding 
  • neurological disorders. 

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your dog, contact a veterinarian without delay.

Summary

Remember that worming is essential to your dog’s health and wellbeing. Regular prevention helps keep our four-legged friend in good shape and protects our family from potential infection. If you have any questions about worming, get in touch with us at the Zviropolis Veterinary Clinic in Warsaw. Our team of specialists is ready to help.

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