There may be no more disgusting part of dog ownership than dealing with internal parasites in your furry friend. However, knowing how to recognize and how to prevent both intestinal parasites and heartworms in your canine is critical to your pet's health. Because dogs can be infected with several types of intestinal worms and heartworms, there are several different types of de-worming medications for canines. Many heartworm prevention products combine several of these medications into one monthly dose to allow you to keep your dog free of parasites.
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Pyrantel pamoate
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Pyrantel pamoate is a de-worming medication that treats roundworm and hookworm infections. The medication also commonly used to treat Physaloptera, also known as stomach worm. Pyrantel pamoate can be used safely to treat dogs that are at least 2 weeks old.
Praziquantel
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Praziquantel is the de-worming medication used for treating tapeworm infections. However, de-worming medications only kill existing tapeworms and do not prevent re-infection. Preventing re-infection usually requires better flea control measures for the dog. Praziquantel can be used safely to treat dogs that are at least 4 weeks old.
Febendazole
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Febendazole is a one-dose de-worming medication that treats roundworm, hookworm and some types of tapeworm infections. It also is used to treat whipworms in three consecutive daily doses and repeated in three weeks when used for this type of parasite. Febendazole can be administered safely to dog at least 6 weeks old.
Milbemycin Oxime
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Milbemycin Oxime is another de-worming medication that can eliminate infections of whipworms, roundworms and hookworms. It can be administered safely once a dog is 4 weeks old and weighs at least 2 pounds.
Ivermectin
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Ivermectin is the most common medication used for prevention of heartworm infection. It can be administered when a dog reaches 6 weeks of age.
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