What Dewormers Do Veterinarians Use for Dogs?
Dogs are susceptible to various internal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, heartworms, and lungworms. These parasites not only cause discomfort and illness but may also result in serious health complications if left untreated. Deworming is a fundamental part of veterinary care and helps ensure optimal canine health and longevity.
Why Deworming Is Important
Veterinarians emphasize regular deworming because parasites can:
- Cause nutritional deficiencies due to competition for nutrients
- Lead to anemia, gastrointestinal issues, and developmental problems, especially in puppies
- Transmit to humans (zoonotic potential)
- Result in serious conditions like heart or lung disease in the case of heartworms and lungworms
Common Types of Dewormers Used by Vets
Veterinarians select dewormers based on the type of worm infestation. These medications are either prescription-based or approved for over-the-counter sales. Key active ingredients include:
- Fenbendazole: A broad-spectrum dewormer effective against roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, some tapeworms, Giardia, and lungworms. Sold under the brand name Panacur C.
- Pyrantel Pamoate: Commonly used against roundworms and hookworms. Often included in combination products like Heartgard Plus.
- Praziquantel: Targets tapeworms by damaging their protective outer layer. It’s found in products such as Droncit and is also included in combinations like Interceptor Plus.
- Milbemycin Oxime: A versatile dewormer that handles heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. Common in Interceptor and Sentinel brands.
- Ivermectin: Widely used for heartworm prevention and effective against some intestinal worms and external parasites. Found in Heartgard Plus.
- Febantel: Converted into fenbendazole and effective against whipworms. Common in multi-ingredient products like Bayer’s Quad Dewormer.
Prescription Deworming Products
Veterinarians often prescribe combination products for comprehensive protection:
- Simparica Trio: A monthly chewable with sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel. Protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms.
- Interceptor Plus: Contains milbemycin oxime and praziquantel for heartworm prevention and control of roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.
- Sentinel Spectrum: Uses lufenuron, milbemycin oxime, and praziquantel for coverage against fleas, heartworms, and all common intestinal worms.
- Advantage Multi: A topical solution combining imidacloprid and moxidectin for flea control and protection from various worms.
Over-the-Counter Options
Though less potent than prescription versions, some OTC dewormers recommended by vets include:
- Panacur C: Fenbendazole-based powder mixed with food over three days.
- Elanco/Bayer Quad Dewormer: Contains praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel to treat four major worms.
- PetArmor 7 Way De-Wormer: Combines praziquantel and pyrantel for tapeworm, hookworm, and roundworm control.
- Sentry WormX Plus: Pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel in a chewable formulation.
Deworming Schedules and Guidelines
- Puppies: Start at 2–3 weeks; repeat every 2–3 weeks until 8 weeks, then monthly until 6 months.
- Adults: Deworm 2–4 times a year if not on monthly preventatives.
- Pregnant/Lactating Dogs: Deworming schedules vary; consult a vet for safety.
Proper Usage and Safety Tips
- Always weigh your dog for accurate dosing
- Use age- and weight-appropriate products
- Avoid ivermectin in sensitive breeds like Collies unless approved by a vet
- Monitor for side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea
- Consult your vet before combining parasite preventatives
Preventing Reinfection
- Pick up and dispose of feces promptly
- Implement flea control to reduce tapeworm risk
- Prevent dogs from hunting or eating raw meat
- Maintain regular deworming and vet visits
- Practice good hygiene, especially after handling waste
How Veterinarians Diagnose Worms
Diagnosis typically involves a fecal test to detect eggs or larvae under a microscope. Symptoms prompting testing include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea (with or without blood), or visible worms in stool
- Weight loss, poor coat quality, pot-bellied appearance
- Scooting, lethargy, or stunted growth in puppies
Summary
Veterinarians rely on a variety of dewormers tailored to the type of parasite and the dog’s health status. Prescription products offer broad-spectrum coverage, combining ingredients to simplify treatment and prevention. Nonetheless, maintaining a regular deworming schedule, ensuring environmental hygiene, and monitoring your pet’s health are essential to long-term parasite control. Always consult a veterinarian to determine the best and safest option for your dog.
