Roundworm is a catch-all phrase for an intestinal, esophageal, colon, heart or lung parasite that can live quite comfortably in dogs and humans. Only a veterinarian or doctor can diagnose roundworm for sure, but if you or your dog are passing small (3 to 5 inch long) white worms, roundworm is probably present.
Dogs usually get roundworm from eating infected feces; roundworm eggs are passed on to puppies through their mother's milk. Lack of protective care in cleaning up after a dog with roundworm can transmit the parasite to the owner, usually via dirt that contains the roundworm eggs.
Things You'll Need
- Prescribed medication
- Bleach
- Gloves
Instructions
Confirm the diagnosis. If you suspect you and/or your dog has roundworm, your veterinarian and your doctor will want a stool sample to confirm. Take it with you to the appointment.
Take/give the prescribed medication. Your vet will probably prescribe something like Fenbendazole or Pyrantel. Your doctor may prescribe Parasitin. Make sure you and your dog take all medication as directed.
Clean up after your pet. The medication will take care of the roundworms, but not necessarily their eggs. Clean up any dog waste immediately and douse the spot with bleach solution if possible. Bleach removes the hard outer layer of the roundworm egg and causes it to die. Use rubber gloves, even if you do not intend to handle the waste directly.