Parasite infestation is a problem for many pet owners. Internal parasites, such as worms, affect dogs of all ages and breeds and can be passed on from mothers to puppies and from dog to dog. Vomiting, weight loss, and diarrhea are common symptoms of worms and can cause serious health concerns if left untreated. Removing worms from the soil in your yard is not difficult, and it can help prevent reinfestation of healthy dogs.
Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Canine wormer
- Sprayer jar
- Liquid dish soap
- Diatomaceous earth
Instructions
Clean your yard frequently to remove feces that can spread parasites. Worms move from fresh feces into the soil, infesting your yard each time your dog goes out. Use a shovel to remove as much fecal matter from your yard as possible at least once a week to minimize infestation.
Administer wormer to your dog on a regular schedule. Most adult dogs need to be wormed every three months to minimize worm problems, so worm him four times per year to help keep him healthy and worm-free.
Fill a sprayer jar with a solution of dish soap and water and attach to your hose. Spray your yard with the soap mixture, making sure to soak the ground. The soap mixture irritates worms in the soil and will drive them to the surface.
Coat your yard with a thin layer of diatomaceous earth to kill remaining worms. Diatomaceous earth is a fine powdery substance made from fossils of ancient hard-shelled algae that penetrates the soil and kills the parasites. Allow the diatomaceous earth to sit in your yard undisturbed for a few days before mowing or watering for maximum effectiveness.