How to Clean the Yard When Your Dogs Have Worms

It is essential to clean and sanitize your yard after your dog has become infected with parasites. Parasites can live in your dog's feces for a few days after elimination and can possibly reinfect your dog or infect members of your household if not properly disposed of. In addition to disposing of dog waste, there are several other steps you can take to ensure your yard is free of parasitic worms.

  1. General Clean-Up

    • The most important part of cleaning your yard when your dog has worms is to remove the feces as soon as possible, preferably before the waste breaks down, as parasites are present in the feces of infected dogs. Try to get your dog to move his bowels outside of the yard if you can, such as while on a walk. Use a scooper or a plastic bag to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly. If waste is still visible after removal, it may be a good idea to dig up that part of the yard until the dog is free of the worms.

    Homemade Spray

    • Create a homemade sanitizer spray that will effectively kill parasites without damaging your lawn or plants. Liquid dish soap is often used as a natural means of controlling pest insects in the garden and yard, and will work just as effectively on any parasites lurking in the grass. Add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid dish soap to a gallon of warm water and mix thoroughly before pouring the mixture into a garden sprayer. Spray the mixture wherever you think worms are. Focus on areas of the yard you know you dog prefers to relieve himself in.

    Diatomaceous Earth

    • Diatomaceous earth is another natural, effective treatment when cleaning a contaminated yard. Diatomaceous earth is the remains of microscopic diatoms, a substance that is lethal to insects but will not harm mammals. The edges slice into insect bodies or kill them from the inside out if ingested. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth wherever you think parasitic worms are present in your yard.

    Additional Tips

    • Some areas of the yard may require covering when dealing with a contaminated yard, such as children's sandboxes. Regularly clean and sanitize dog housing, and do not ever let your dog consume raw meat or get into the garbage cans, both of which can lead to reinfection. Remember to wear gloves at all times when cleaning and thoroughly wash your hands post-cleaning.