Mother has worms but not showing in pups yet

by Heather Mmiddleton
(Harlan, Kentucky)

My female chi-poo had pups on Nov. 5, 2011 they are a month old today...

Today when the mother went to the bathroom, I found all kinds of rice looking worms in her poop..I have not found any in the pups yet..

what could be wrong?






Hi Heather
What you're seeing are probably tapeworms, and the little 'rice like grains' are segments of the worms.

Most puppies have roundworms which they get passed on to them from their momma while in the womb or through her milk. Even though you may not see these, they are usually there.

Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas and you need to treat your momma dog with a good flea/tick preventative such as K9 Advantix or Frontline Plus. These are both available online of from your veterinarian.

She also needs to be treated for the worms and so does her puppies. Pups are usually treated for, a href="http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com/puppy-worms.html">puppy worms at 3 - 5 weeks old and then routinely after that when they get their puppy shots.

Do not use over the counter worm products found at your local store. Have your vet administer them, or give you the medication or use a product such as Panacur C - Canine Dewormer. They're much safer and more effective.

Left untreated a worm infestation can cause serious problems in dogs, and particularly in young, vulnerable puppies so please get your pups and your dog to your vet right away.

Best of luck with them all.