how long before a de-wormer takes affect?

by Kayla
(Union Oregon)

My puppy was given to us at 6 weeks. His tummy has been swollen since day 1, and we soon noticed worms in his stool. (Round Worms).

Yesterday we gave his first de-worming medicine, and we are still seeing them pass at a larger number.

How long before we begin seeing a change?


Hi Kayla
The fact that you're seeing the worms passing more quickly shows that the dewormer IS working.

Depending on how severe the worm infestation is, it could take a while for all the worms to be eliminated from your puppys' system.

Also, one round of treatment isn't generally enough, and most pups are wormed three times, at three week intervals. This should be done by your vet at the same time as your pup gets his puppy shots.

Over-the-counter deworming medications aren't usually very effective, and can have unwanted (or even dangerous) side effects. I'd recommend having your vet do any additional dewormings and tell him what you have already given your pup.

Roundworms are a the most common type of puppy worms, but he could have other types as well, including tapeworms, whipworms or hookworms. Only your veterinarian can make a proper diagnosis by doing a fecal test.

Hope this helps, best of luck with your puppy.