Protect your dog from worms in Basingstoke
February 14, 2023
As the weather starts to get warmer, your pet will probably be spending more time outside. So now’s a great time to book a spring check-up with our vet nurse, Ruth, to make sure your dog is safe from the increased risk of parasitic worms that comes with warmer weather.
Choosing the right treatment
To help you choose the right worming treatment for your pet, Ruth and the team will need to know a few details about your dog and their lifestyle. For example:
- If your dog is very young, they’re at greater risk from roundworm
- If your dog is a scavenger, they’re more likely to be exposed to tapeworms
- If you have a garden and your dog plays with toys left on the lawn overnight, there can be an increased risk of lungworm
Worms can be very tricky to spot, so don’t wait for symptoms of infection to appear. Instead, it’s best to get your pet checked regularly for parasites.
Types of worm that affect dogs
Parasites can cause all sorts of nasty health problems for your pet, and can even be harmful to humans too.
Roundworm eggs can remain in grass or soil for years, and are picked up by your dog’s muzzle, paws and coat as it walks and sniffs in affected areas. The eggs can also pose a risk to humans, so protecting your dog means protecting your entire household.
Tapeworms can be contracted as a result of fleas, so make sure you keep your pet’s bedding clean and look out for flea dirt. The aim of treating your dog for tapeworms is to kill any worms inside, breaking the tapeworm lifecycle and preventing the release of eggs into your home.
Lungworm is a parasite that’s carried by slugs and snails, so if there’s a lot of wet weather in Basingstoke, the possibility of infection will be higher. Emily, our head vet, is concerned about increasing numbers of lungworm cases in the UK and urges all dog owners to be vigilant.
Protecting your dog – The Hampshire Wellness Club
Get in contact with us to arrange a visit to discuss treatment options. For cats and dogs we have developed The Hampshire Wellness Club. This subscription service provides preventative treatment for your pet, with parasite control delivered to you as standard. There are additional benefits such as a vaccinations including kennel cough, one free vet consultation per year and 2 nail clip/anal gland check appointments amongst other benefits.
For more information on how to register for The Hampshire Wellness Club please visit our website or email us at info@thehampshirevet.co.uk.
