Dog worms are not something we like to think about! We just want to get rid of them! Well, what if certain foods can help!? Troy from Premier Pups lets us know 10 Everyday Foods to help get rid of dog worms…
10 Everyday Foods to Help Get Rid of Dog Worms
Dog worms are gross and dangerous, and they are often perceived as a real nightmare by dog owners. If you already already bought or adopted a puppy, chances are to have already dealt with dog worms.
After contracting worms, a dog begins to show symptoms in a few days, weeks or months. The most frequent signs are lethargy, swollen stomach, abdominal pain, dull coat, coughing, rapid or labored breathing, frequent flatulence, white specks in feces, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, loss of appetite or huge appetite with no weight gain, anemia, fever, scudding, scooting or scratching the tail. First, it is important to determine the type of worms your dog has, so it is recommended to take a fecal sample to your vet.
The most common types of worms
Whipworms are very small, with a thread-like appearance and a thick part at one end. They can cause anemia and dehydration and are not visible in the stool. Other symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Tapeworms stay in the intestine and are usually released in the stool. They are made of segments under a one-quarter inch long and are contracted by ingesting infected lice or fleas.
Roundworms are around two to four inches long and live in the small intestine. They are white or tan in color and they are released in the stool or vomit. They cause diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain and weight loss.
Hookworms are contracted through the skin or mouth. They are very small and cannot be seen in the stool. They suck the blood and cause anemia. Their symptoms are lethargy, pale gums, weakness. They can also cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes and take hold in the heart. They can be deadly because they choke blood flow and damage other organs. Symptoms appear after a long time after infection.
Fortunately, there are several foods that may help you get rid of dog worms.
- Garlic
Grated garlic mixed with a little fennel seeds powder and given in a moderate amount according to the body weight can have miraculous results. For a weight bigger than 35 lbs., 2-3 garlic cloves are recommended, for a weight between 15-35 pounds, 1 garlic clove is enough, and for a weight between 15 pounds, ½ garlic clove is perfect during the meal.
Scientific research showed that garlic is one of the best home remedies for worms in dogs. It flushes the worms and strengthens the immune system. It contains an amino acid derived compound that helps kill the worms.
Avoid giving your dog high amounts of garlic because it can cause poisoning, leading even to death. Also, if your dog is pregnant or has pressure problems, avoid garlic.
- Pumpkin
Fresh, raw pumpkin seeds can help prevent or expel worms. You can also grind them in a mixer and give your dog in his dish. A teaspoon per ten pounds of weight is recommended.
- Wormwood
Wormwood helps expel various types of parasites thanks to the tannins and volatile oils it contains. The recommended quantities are ¼ teaspoon for small dogs and ½ teaspoon for bigger dogs. Be careful to not exceed these quantities as it may harm your dog. It is not recommended for dogs suffering from seizures, liver or kidney problems.
- Cloves
Cloves contain antibacterial and antiparasitic characteristics that kill various types of intestinal worms. They also increase the white blood cells and improve the immune system. Grind them in a mixer and give your dog once a day for a week. Small dogs should be served ¼ of a clove, medium dogs, ½ of a clove and big dogs, 1 clove. They are not recommended for pregnant dogs or for those with an irritated stomach.
- Cinnamon and peppermint
Ground cinnamon and peppermint fed once a day for a week help to eliminate the parasites. The quantities are ½ teaspoon for small dogs, 1 teaspoon for medium-sized and 2 teaspoons for large-sized dogs. Cinnamon contains anti-parasitic, antifungal and antibacterial properties and other compounds that strengthen the immune system, while mint leaves improve the digestive health. Peppermint has antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Oregon grape
Tincture of Oregon grape has already proven its therapeutic properties. It protects against parasites, bacteria, viruses, and fungi and helps strengthen the immune system. Give 12 drops two times a day to your dog. Avoid this remedy if your dog has heart or liver problems or if she is pregnant. Don’t exceed the dosage.
- Pineapple
Chopped pineapples use as a treat in small amounts, about 2 or 3 small pieces, helps the stomach to stay healthy. It contains bromelain which kills tapeworms and prevents stool eating in dogs. Avoid canned pineapples or serving it to your dog with its peel. The excess cause diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, and vomiting.
- Propolis
Propolis tincture diluted in water has effective results against worms. It contains amino acids, polyphenols, flavonoids, diterpenic acids that have antibacterial, antiparasitic, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties.
Put 1 ml of tincture in ½ liter water and keep it in the refrigerator. Give 1 teaspoon a day for every 22 pounds of your dog’s body weight. Give it your dog for a week or two and avoid overdosing.
- Carrots, oat, and beetroot
Oat bran, mixed with equal quantities of grated or mixed raw carrots and beetroot, gets excellent results when it comes to getting rid of worms. You can give your dog this mixture once a day for a week. The quantity for a small dog is a ½ teaspoon, for medium dogs 1 teaspoon and for bigger dogs, 2 teaspoons.
Oat bran has laxative properties and contains natural phytic acid which doesn’t allow the worms to absorb the essential nutrients. Carrots are rich in vitamin A and other compounds that kill the internal parasites. Beetroot helps eliminate the worms, clean the digestive system and detoxifies the liver.
- Black Walnut Hull
Black walnut hull used as oil or powder helps to eliminate various types of worms. If used unproperly, it can be toxic. It has vermifuge action due to alkaloids, natural iodine, astringent tannins, and juglone. It is recommended to begin with 1-2 drops for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight and increase by 1-2 drops a day until parasites are expelled. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian if you are not sure how to administer it. It is not recommended for pregnant dogs, dogs suffering from vomiting, diarrhea or gastritis.
Conclusion
Often, these types of food can help get rid of dog worms, but there are situations in which they cannot get the expected results if the worm infestation is severe. We recommend consulting the vet to find out what types of worms your dog has and ensure you choose the most effective mix of natural remedies and the proper dosage. After your dog finishes the treatment, take him to the vet again to check if he has recovered.
About the author:
Troy works as a Marketing Specialist for Premier Pups. He takes great pride in partnering with the best certified breeders in Ohio to offer the highest quality, cutest puppies for adoption. He looks forward to sharing his love for pets with people through the agency. Anyone who knows Troy knows how much he loves his dog, who he rescued from a shelter a few years ago. He keeps thinking about getting him a playmate. With every litter of Pomsky puppies, he struggles with not taking one home!
If you have concerns about worms in your dog, please speak to your vet.
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