Diatomaceous Earth for Tapeworms in Dogs

Diatomaceous Earth, also referred to as DE, is the broken down remains of oceanic plant life known as phytoplankton. The silica left behind by the decay of these microscopic organisms mixes with dirt, mineral and ash to form DE. When seen under a microscope, the particles in DE are like shards of glass, yet when held in your hand, it possesses a texture not unlike talcum powder.

  1. Dogs and Tapeworms

    • The tapeworm is a parasitic worm common to many mammals, including dogs. Since it is transmitted by the flea, it is a common ailment to pets that have or have had fleas. Signs of tapeworm in dogs include scooting, bloating and tapeworm segments found on their stool or on the fur around their rectum. You may also check your dog's bedding and living area for tiny "sesame seeds," as when the segments die and dry up this is what they resemble. In a tapeworm infected dog, the seeds are the easiest way to diagnose the problem.

    DE and Tapeworms

    • DE serves as a non-toxic pesticide, and you can feed it to your dog to eliminate internal parasites, including but not limited to the tapeworm. When the DE comes in contact with a soft-bodied organism, it has a dehydrating effect on that organism, causing it to dry up and perish. It is also effective as a flea eliminator. The dust penetrates the insect's exoskeleton and effectively "shreds" the soft body beneath, killing the flea. It is essential to rid the dog of fleas to prevent further tapeworm infestations.

    Feeding DE

    • Mix diatomaceous earth that is sold as food grade (that is, containing 1 percent or less crystalline silica) with your dog's food. Use approximately 1 tbsp. for a dog that weighs more than 35 lbs., and 1 tsp. for dogs weighing less than 35 lbs. Feed DE every day, without missing any days, for a minimum of one month to eliminate tapeworm loads. Take a stool sample to your vet to have him do a fecal egg count. If the parasites are still present, up the dose in teaspoon increments until the parasites are gone. You can feed the DE continuously, so there is no fear of overdoing it. Some suggest and practice feeding DE every day for the life of the animal.

    Warning

    • It is important that you purchase DE that is listed and sold as food grade. There is also DE used for filtering water in pools, and this form of DE is highly toxic if consumed due to the higher amounts of crystalline it contains. Read the packaging carefully to ensure that you have purchased diatomaceous earth safe for consumption by both humans and animals. If you have asthma or other breathing problems, wear a mask when handling it to avoid breathing in the fine dust. Keep DE completely dry or it will become ineffective.