How to Control Tapeworms in Canines

Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) live in the intestinal tract of an infected canine. The parasite measures 6 inches or more in length. It attaches its mouth to the dog's intestine so it can suck nutrients from the dog's system. The worm remains hooked to the intestinal wall while it produces segments filled with eggs that break off the worm's body. The segments are excreted through the dog's fecal matter where fleas inadvertently ingest the eggs and go on to infect other dogs with the parasite when they accidentally ingest the fleas, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea shampoo
  • Topical flea treatment
  • Diatomaceous earth
  • Vacuum
  • Prescription tapeworm medication
  • Garlic
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Instructions

    • 1

      Treat the dog for a flea infestation. Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas, so to control the tapeworms you must first control the fleas. Wash the dog using a flea soap. Apply topical flea medications to kill the fleas and the eggs.

    • 2

      Vacuum the entire house to help remove the fleas. Wash all the bedding and other fabric that the dog comes into contact with in hot water. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the house, on the pet and on the pet's bedding. Diatomaceous earth is the remains of fossilized sea creatures. It does not harm humans or pets but it does cut up and kill fleas that come into contact with the substance.

    • 3

      Take the dog to the veterinarian to receive a prescription to rid the dog of the tapeworms. Veterinarians prescribe several different medications to successfully rid dogs of tapeworms. Follow the directions on the medication.

    • 4

      Dice up one clove of garlic daily and mix it with the dog's food. Garlic makes the dog smell unpleasant to fleas which helps prevent the dog from contracting additional tapeworms, according to the Mother Earth News website.