Top Dog > Worms


Worm infestation is common in dogs and can cause distress, ill health and even death if severely infected. When infested your dog may suffer from vomiting or diarrhoea, and will probably lose weight and condition. Heavy roundworm infections may cause a distended stomach and ‘pot-bellied’ appearance which is particularly noticeable in puppies. In dogs, dragging of the bottom along the ground is a sign that is often seen when in need of worming.

Roundworms: are spread from animal to animal and are very similar looking to earthworms but much thinner. The adult worms live in the intestines, feeding on the contents – in effect, stealing your pet`s food and growing to around 4 inches in length. The commonest infection situation is during pregnancy, when large numbers of worm larvae migrate into the puppy in the uterus (womb), infecting it before it is even born. The most common roundworm in UK dogs, Toxocara canis, can also infect people, and children are particularly vulnerable if the eggs are accidentally ingested. Often this is from the fingers or from plates that pets have licked or from the soil. Care must be particularly advised when there are young children in the environment.

Tapeworms: consist of segments with a head that attaches itself to the intestine. Mature segments break away and can be seen in the motions or around the base of the tail. They appear to show signs of life and resemble flattened grains of rice. Tapeworms, unlike roundworms, need an intermediate host (e.g. flea or mouse) which when eaten infects the dog. Adult tapeworms anchor themselves to the gut wall and feed on the animal’s blood causing anaemia, lethargy, loss of appetite and a dull lifeless coat.

Worms are, unfortunately, impossible to prevent, however, there are a number of very effective products that will kill worms. Remember however, that most oral worming products are effective at the time of use – they do not have a prolonged action thus it is necessary to use a worming treatment regularly – every 3 months is recommended in adult dogs and cats.

Drontal Plus: still the only wormer to kill all commonly found dog worms in the U.K. Available in single tablets that can be used for puppies, pregnant and lactating bitches and of course all adult dogs. For adult pets four treatments per year will form the basis of an effective worming regime. Puppies should be treated from the age of 2 weeks, every 2 weeks there after until they are about 3 months of age.