Helpful Guide for Puppy Buyers: Dealing with a Positive Roundworm Fecal Sample

Congratulations on your new furry family member from Stokeshire Designer Doodles! Bringing a puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with love and joy. However, it's essential to be prepared for any health issues that may arise, including roundworm infections. After your puppy's first vet visit, it's important to understand that even though we strive for every puppy to go home completely free of parasites, this outcome isn't always guaranteed. In fact, individual puppies from the same litter may test positive or negative for parasites despite undergoing the same three-round deworming protocol. This is normal and underscores the importance of continued vigilance and preventive measures to ensure your puppy's well-being.

Here's a helpful guide on what to do if your puppy tests positive for roundworms during a vet visit:

Understanding Roundworms: Roundworms, also known as nematodes or ascarids, are common intestinal parasites found in dogs. They feed off partially digested food in the intestine and can be transmitted to other dogs and even humans.

Causes of Roundworm Infections

Dogs become infected with roundworms by ingesting microscopic roundworm eggs found in infected feces. These eggs can be spread through various means, including contact with contaminated soil or other animals, and can be passed from the mother.

Lifecycle of Roundworms

The life cycle of roundworms involves several stages, including migration through bodily tissues. In pregnant dogs, roundworm larvae can cross the placenta to infect unborn puppies. Puppies can also acquire roundworms through infected milk from their mothers.

Potential Risks

If left untreated, roundworms are particularly concerning for puppies as they can lead to stunted growth and nutrient deficiencies. In adult dogs, roundworm larvae may become encysted in tissues, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your veterinarian will diagnose roundworm infection through a microscopic examination of your puppy's feces. Treatment is usually straightforward and effective, with various deworming medications available. Some heartworm preventives also help control roundworm infections.

Prevention

Preventing roundworm infections involves deworming pregnant dogs, routinely deworming puppies, and using heartworm preventives that also target roundworms. Rodent control is also essential to reduce the risk of infection.

Human Health Concerns

Roundworms can pose a health risk to humans, especially children. To be infected, one would need to ingest large amounts of infectious eggs from contaminated soil or surfaces. To prevent transmission, strict hygiene practices should be followed, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling pets. It's important to avoid allowing children to touch puppies' feces and to use common sense hygiene practices. Additionally, avoiding puppy potty areas is crucial to reduce the risk of infection.

What to Do Next

If your puppy is diagnosed with roundworms, there is no need to panic. Simply follow the treatment recommendations and preventive measures suggested by your veterinarian to ensure your puppy's health and prevent the spread of the infection. Please send us an email to inform us of the situation. We like to keep track of these things and also inform other owners of littermates about the results if needed. We continually strive to improve our program and rotate medications to maintain the holistic health of our puppies. It's important to note that deworming medications and treatments can be harsh on the gut and overall well-being of young puppies.

Common deworming medications for puppies include

  1. Pyrantel Pamoate: This medication is effective against roundworms and hookworms, which are common intestinal parasites in puppies.

  2. Fenbendazole: Fenbendazole is broad-spectrum and can treat various types of intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and some types of tapeworms. This is the preferred medication that your puppy will have had with us before they go home at 8 Weeks.

    1. As per the feedback from puppies that have gone home at 8 weeks, we will continue a deworming regime for puppies that enter Doodle School.

  3. Praziquantel: Praziquantel is specifically used to treat tapeworm infections in puppies.

These deworming medications are typically administered orally in the form of flavored tablets or liquid suspensions, making them easy to administer to puppies. The frequency of deworming depends on various factors, including the puppy's age, risk of exposure to parasites, and individual health status. However, a common deworming schedule for puppies involves deworming every two to three weeks starting at around two weeks of age until they are about three to six months old. After this initial period, deworming may be done less frequently, typically every three to six months, depending on the puppy's lifestyle and risk factors. It's important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations for deworming frequency based on your puppy's specific needs and circumstances.

While deworming medications are generally safe and effective when administered correctly, they can occasionally have negative effects on the health of the gut. Some potential concerns include:

  1. Gastrointestinal Upset: Deworming medications can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset in puppies, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve once the medication has been metabolized.

  2. Disruption of Gut Microbiota: When puppies are given deworming medications, it can disturb the natural balance of good bacteria in their gut, which can cause dysbiosis. This imbalance can lead to digestive problems and weaken the puppy's immune system.

  3. Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, puppies may have an allergic reaction to certain deworming medications, leading to symptoms such as itching, hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. If your puppy exhibits any signs of an allergic reaction, seek veterinary care immediately.

  4. Toxicity: While uncommon, overdose or improper administration of deworming medications can lead to toxicity, causing more severe gastrointestinal symptoms or other systemic effects.

To minimize the risk of negative effects on the gut health of your puppy, it's essential to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully when administering deworming medications. Use the correct dosage based on your puppy's weight, and never exceed the recommended dose. Additionally, monitor your puppy for any signs of adverse reactions after deworming and contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Providing probiotics or supportive care as directed by your veterinarian may also help maintain gut health during and after deworming treatment.




Natural Remedies

At Stokeshire, we believe in taking a balanced and holistic approach to pet care, which includes incorporating natural and dog-friendly foods into your pet's diet to support their overall health and potentially reduce the risk of parasite infestations. While these foods may not directly eliminate parasites, they can contribute to your pet's well-being in various ways. Here are some examples of natural foods that we recommend:

  1. Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds contain compounds that may have antiparasitic properties and can help support digestive health in dogs. They are rich in fiber and can aid in maintaining regular bowel movements, which may help expel parasites from the gastrointestinal tract.

  2. Garlic: In small amounts, garlic is believed to have natural antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties. However, it's essential to use caution when feeding garlic to dogs, as large quantities can be toxic. Consult with your veterinarian before adding garlic to your pet's diet.

  3. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids, which have antimicrobial properties and may help support immune function in dogs. Adding small amounts of coconut oil to your pet's food may promote overall health and potentially reduce the risk of parasite infestations.

  4. Fermented Foods: Foods such as yogurt, kefir, and unpasteurized sauerkraut contain beneficial probiotics that can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in dogs. A healthy gut microbiome may help support immune function and reduce susceptibility to parasites.

  5. Raw Honey: Raw honey has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties and may help support immune function in dogs. However, it's essential to use caution when feeding honey to dogs, as it is high in sugar. Limit the amount of honey given to your pet and opt for raw, unpasteurized honey for maximum benefits.

  6. Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural product made from fossilized algae and contains silica, which is believed to have insecticidal properties. When used externally, diatomaceous earth may help control fleas and ticks on dogs. However, it's essential to use food-grade diatomaceous earth and follow safety precautions when applying it to your pet's coat.

  7. Herbal Supplements: Certain herbs, such as wormwood, cloves, and oregano, are believed to have natural antiparasitic properties. However, it's essential to use caution when using herbal supplements and consult with a holistic veterinarian to ensure safety and proper dosing for your pet.

While incorporating these natural foods and supplements into your pet's diet may provide some benefits, it's essential to remember that they should not replace conventional veterinary care or parasite prevention measures. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your pet's diet or healthcare regimen. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, regular veterinary check-ups, and following a veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention plan are key to keeping your pet healthy and parasite-free.

These herbal ingredients are renowned for their therapeutic properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries:

  1. Artemisia absinthium (Wormwood): Esteemed in both Eastern and Western herbal medicine, Wormwood serves as an excellent digestive tonic, aiding in expelling worms from the body. Additionally, it possesses calmative and antibiotic properties, contributing to overall gastrointestinal health.

  2. Eugenia caryophyllata (Cloves): Cloves stand out as one of the most potent antibacterial spices, boasting anti-parasitic, antiseptic, and bactericidal properties. Beyond their antimicrobial effects, cloves contain potent detoxifying agents and can relieve symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and flatulence.

  3. Azadirachta indica (Neem): Highly valued in Ayurvedic medicine, Neem is revered for its multifaceted benefits. Notably, it exhibits anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties while aiding in expelling worms and purifying the system. Neem's versatility extends to its use in treating malaria, showcasing its broad spectrum of therapeutic potential.

  4. Ruta graveolens (Herb of Grace): Known by the moniker "Herb of Grace," Rue has a rich history of medicinal use, addressing various health concerns such as high blood pressure, rheumatism, arthritis, epilepsy, asthma, and cramps. Rue's inclusion in herbal formulations underscores its importance in promoting holistic wellness.

By harnessing the synergistic effects of these potent herbs, formulations incorporating these ingredients offer comprehensive support for gastrointestinal health and may aid in addressing various health concerns, embodying the essence of natural healing and vitality.

Your Yard’s Health

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) can be used to help reduce worms and other parasites in the environment, including on grass. When sprinkled onto grass or outdoor areas, DE can help control parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and other pests.

To use DE on grass to reduce worms, follow these steps:

  1. Choose Food-Grade DE: Ensure that you're using food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other forms may contain additives or chemicals that could be harmful to pets or the environment.

  2. Apply DE to Grass: Sprinkle a thin layer of DE evenly over the grass or soil where worms are present. Use a hand-held spreader or simply scatter the DE by hand.

  3. Repeat as Needed: DE works best when applied consistently and reapplied after rainfall or irrigation. Repeat the application every few weeks or as needed to maintain its effectiveness.

  4. Consider Safety Precautions: While DE is generally safe for pets and humans, it's important to use caution when applying it to outdoor areas. Wear gloves and a dust mask to avoid inhaling the fine particles, and keep pets away from treated areas until the DE has settled.

  5. Monitor Effectiveness: Keep an eye on the grass and surrounding areas to monitor for signs of reduced worm activity. If needed, reapply DE as necessary to maintain control.

It is important to understand that diatomaceous earth (DE) can help reduce worms present in the environment, but it may not completely eliminate them. Additionally, DE primarily targets external parasites and may have limited effectiveness against internal parasites in pets. Therefore, it is crucial to follow a comprehensive parasite prevention plan as recommended by your veterinarian. This may include regular deworming treatments and other preventive measures to keep your pets healthy and safe.

If you have any concerns or questions about using DE or controlling worms in your pet's environment, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that can be applied to your yard to target and control various pests, including fleas, ticks, and certain types of worms. These nematodes seek out and feed on pest larvae in the soil, helping to reduce their populations naturally.

Certain plants have natural properties that repel pests, including parasites. Consider planting herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and mint, which are known for their insect-repelling qualities. Additionally, marigolds and chrysanthemums contain compounds that repel pests like fleas and ticks.


Conclusion

It's important to understand that taking care of your pet's health, such as treating roundworm infections, is a natural part of being a pet owner, especially as they age. To ensure your pet has a happy and healthy life, it's crucial to keep yourself informed, take preventive measures, and seek advice from your veterinary team as needed.

When it comes to taking your puppy to areas with high dog traffic like dog parks, it's best to avoid them for the first 20 weeks of your puppy's life, but we still strongly encourage safe socilization with both dogs and puppies during the first months of their life and during their fear period!

Remember, with proper care and attention, your new puppy can overcome any gut challenges. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian for guidance and support, or reach out if you have additional questions.

It's essential to maintain good hygiene practices not only when your puppy's fecal sample tests positive for parasites but also when it appears clear. Regular handwashing and proper waste disposal should be emphasized to reduce the risk of infection and promote a healthy environment & yard for both your puppy and your family!

Education, HealthJames StokesRoundworm, Parasites