No one likes to think about their pets having parasites, but they are more common than you probably think. Most puppies are born with worms, and it is very easy for dogs to become infested with them. To remove them from your pet, your veterinarian may prescribe Panacur.
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The Facts
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Panacur, also called fenbendazole, is in a class of drugs called anthelmintics. These types of drugs are often used to remove gastrointestinal parasites from the stomach and intestines of animals. A parasite is an organism that receives nourishment by feeding on or within an animal. Dogs that have parasites can spread them to other dogs by passing stool that contains worm eggs or larvae. The most common ways your pet can contract them is by eating infected grass or soil, licking contaminated fur or paws and drinking water that contains the eggs. Additionally, pregnant, infected dogs can pass parasites onto their unborn puppies.
Function
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The most common parasites in dogs are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Panacur is effective in removing these organisms, as well as parasites called strongyles and strongyloides. It is also used to remove certain parasites of the bronchial tree and lungs, giardia and some types of flukes. Often, if a dog has chronic diarrhea and the cause cannot be found, veterinarians will administer a few doses of Panacur as a general broad spectrum wormer.
Signs and Symptoms
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If your pet has roundworms, whipworms or hookworms, you may see them in its stool. Tapeworms, however, will break off into segments and will look like pieces of rice. You may see this around your pet's anus. Additionally, your dog may eat more than usual but lose weight if he is infected. If you are suspicious that your pet has parasites, take him to your veterinarian, along with a stool sample. The doctor will look at your dog's stool under a microscope to identify worm eggs. If found, he may be prescribed Panacur.
Warnings
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Panacur is generally safe, but there are a few precautions. Do not give your dog Panacur if she is allergic to it. After administration, your pet may become nauseous or even vomit. Additionally, you may see dead worms in the stool.
Dosage and Administration
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Panacur is available in granules, liquid and paste. It is usually not effective if only given one time. Therefore, the recommended dose is 25 milligrams per pound once a day for three consecutive days. Even if your pet seems to be better, it is crucial to give all of the medicine until it is gone, or he may still be infected or become resistant to the medication.
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