How Do I Prevent Reinfection of Tapeworms in Puppies?

Tapeworms infect many animals, including puppies. These parasites are long, segmented worms that grow in the intestines. Sometimes a pet owner notices segments of the worm in a puppy's feces or hanging on the fur near the puppy's anal area. After a puppy is treated for this parasite, reinfection can occur if you don't take the necessary preventive measures.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea medicine
  • Vacuum
  • Laundry detergent
  • Rubber gloves
  • Flea spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Treat all of the puppies and other pets in the house for fleas. Because some flea medicines are safer than others, especially for young puppies, use a flea medicine recommended by your veterinarian. Fleas are the primary vector for tapeworm. According to Mar Vista Vet, pets acquire tapeworm by accidentally eating fleas that are infected with tapeworm.

    • 2

      Vacuum all areas of the home that the puppy visits. This includes carpeted and non-carpeted areas, plus all upholstery. A vacuum cleaner will suck up many fleas, eggs and larvae.

    • 3

      Launder all pet bedding and other washable materials that could be harboring fleas, their eggs or larvae. Wash the items in hot water and detergent, then dry them in the clothes dryer on the hot setting.

    • 4

      Put on rubber gloves and place the puppy temporarily outdoors or in another room. Spray carpeting and upholstery with carpet flea spray. Use one that contains an insect growth inhibitor so it controls the flea larvae and eggs as well as the adult fleas. Allow the spray to dry completely before allowing the puppy back in the sprayed rooms.

    • 5

      Remain vigilant about flea prevention. Many vet-recommended flea products must be given once a month to prevent fleas. Also, watch the puppy's stool for any signs of new infestation. The sooner you determine that the puppy has tapeworm, the less time the worms have to contaminate the rest of the puppy's living quarters with their eggs.

    • 6

      Take the puppy to the vet again three weeks after it was initially treated for tapeworm. Mar Vista Vet suggests this because it is very common for animals to become reinfested in the home, even after the first treatment. Three weeks is the time it takes for a tapeworm to mature.