Deworming is an important step to ensure your pet stays in good health. Worms may sound harmless but in pets they can cause serious illness. Due to the severity of the conditions your pet can develop, the veterinary community advises all pets be tested and dewormed regularly. The worms your pets are exposed to don’t just stay with them, they are zoonotic and can be passed on to other species. We can give your loyal companion the protection and treatment they need against all parasites.
How often should my pet be dewormed?
We recommend kittens and puppies be dewormed when they are 2 to 4-weeks-old until they are 3-months-old. As adults they should be dewormed once every 3 months. If your pet needs to be dewormed please schedule an appointment at 416-463-8387.
What are signs that my pet has worms?
Some signs that your pet is infected with worms are:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Swollen belly
- Abdomen pain
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Don’t wait for the signs to disappear on their own. The longer you wait the worse your pet’s condition becomes. You should have a veterinarian examine and test your pet immediately if you notice these signs.
How are worms detected in pets?
Since there are different types of worms there are different ways to test for them. Some worms affect the intestinal system and require stool sample testing. To detect these worms we collect a sample of your pet’s stool and examine it under a microscope. Heartworms live inside your pet and are detected through blood tests. Some other worms like tapeworms can be identified with the naked eye.
Can worms spread to humans?
Absolutely! Some worms can transfer between different species which means the rest of your family can be at risk. Children, seniors, pregnant women and those with pre-existing health issues have a higher chance of catching worms from pets. Roundworms and hookworms are zoonotic worms that can infect your family. To stay protected from worms you should deworm your pet and use caution when handling their feces as it can be dangerous. It is important to wash your hands after handling their waste.
