Deworming is very important in puppies. Its starts with ensuring the dam is fully dewormed before mating. This is because dams can transmit the worms transplacental (in placenta) or trans mammary (when breastfeeding).

Symptoms of worms.

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Coughing
• Chewing or licking under the tail
• Short of breath
• Weight loss
• Dull coat
• Anemia- hookworms

Diagnosis

Fecal exam through centrifugation to check for intestinal worms. Transplacental and trans mammary transmission leads to severe parasitic conditions, even before the worms are shed in stool.

Treatment

There are several types of worms which include: hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms. For this reason, deworming should be done at weeks 2,4,6,8,10 and 12 weeks. Then monthly till 6 months, every 3 months thereafter. during this time, also deworm the dam. A broad spectrum dewormer is always recommended.

Prevention/ control

Ensure proper sanitization/ good hygiene to prevention worm re-infection from the environment. The beddings should be kept clean, dry and changed frequently to reduce contamination of the environment.