Worms infestation in dogs is a condition occurring quite commonly. Dogs, at some point in time, will have intestinal worms. These can result from him snacking onto some roadside trash. An infested mother may also pass the worms to her puppies through feeding. Eating contaminated soil, consuming infected prey, mosquito or flea bites, contact with an infected animal can also be some other possible ways of how your dog may have come in contact with the infection.
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How to Naturally Treat Worm Infestation in Dogs?
There are different types of worms which live in a dog’s body and takes away all his nutrients. Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms and heartworms are the most common types.
It is important to get your dog dewormers at the prescribed time every year to keep him away from the risk of worms.
However, if such a case occurs there are a few methods to get rid of them.
#1 Garlic
Garlic has amazing antimicrobial and antibiotic properties and it acts as a detox agent. These properties stand good for us humans and for our dogs as well. It has strong acids present in it which can be good for dogs. When given in moderation, garlic can help get rid of worms in dogs.
However, the amount of garlic being fed to your dog should be in moderation as high doses of garlic can prove toxic to them.
You can mix some amount of grated garlic with fennel or feed it directly to your dog for 5 days. This shows great results and gets rid of any worms on dogs.
#2 Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are known to be helpful in expelling worms in both humans and animals. The effect of pumpkin seeds on the parasites leaves them paralyzed. They fall off the wall of the intestine and are therefore easily expelled from the body.
These seeds can be fed directly as a snack or can be mixed with the dog’s food.
#3 Dewormers
If your dog has a worm infestation it is important to take him to a veterinarian for a proper check-up. A vet can correctly diagnose the severity and give your dog the proper required treatment. There are a number of dewormers which can be given to the dog depending on his condition and the type of worm.
It is highly recommended to consult a vet before purchasing any over-the-counter medication for your dog’s worm treatment.
#4 Carrots
Raw carrots are not easily digestible by dogs. This inability to be digested makes it an excellent dewormer. This acts as an amazing way to remove any worms in the dog’s intestines. As the carrots travel through the digestive tract of the dog, it scrapes against the lining of the intestines forcing the worms to detach from it and pass out of the body along with the vegetable.
#5 Cloves
Cloves have been successful in eliminating parasites in both animals and humans. It is even included in many anti-parasitic medicines. Feeding a clove after meals for a week and then taking a week off successfully eliminates worms from the dog’s intestines. This method of week on-off should be continued for about two months to see results.
#6 Fermented Foods
Fermented foods boost a dog’s immune system and eliminate the worms. Vegetables like sauerkraut or kimchi are probably the safest way to treat worms.
Grated or chopped cucumber is another great option to mix into your dog’s food.
#7 Certain Fruits
Some fruits like pineapple, papaya and pomegranate have the ability to fight worms in dogs. Pineapple is full of bromeliad which is a type of enzyme that digests protein. While pomegranate fights tapeworms, papaya has an enzyme which helps in eliminating other types of worms.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is great for the dog’s digestive health and it supports the immune system too. It is certainly a great way to remove worms in dogs. Bone broth can be added to the dog’s food or fed as a snack.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic, unfiltered raw vinegar in your dog’s water or food creates an alkaline digestive system which keeps the parasites away.
If you spot any common symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, rubbing the hindquarters across the ground, the presence of roundworms in your dog’s feces, you should treat him with the above-mentioned ways or take him to a vet.
The Endnote:
Prevention of worms should be your priority as a dog owner. You should take all conscious efforts to keep your dog healthy and worm-free. Lastly, parasites and worms can also spread from your canine to humans through the infected fecal matter. It is thus important to take precautions while disposing of the dog’s fecal matter.