Transmission of Canine Parasites
Dogs get infected with hookworms by ingesting contaminated sources that contain hookworm or roundworm larvae. Hookworm larvae pass through the dog's skin and migrate to the intestines to form adult hookworms. Pregnant pets may transmit the larvae to their unborn puppies through placental blood flow. The infection can be detected through microscopic examination of the stool as hookworm eggs pass through dog feces.
The transmission of canine roundworms usually occurs from infected mothers to their puppies. Roundworms attach themselves to the dog's intestine and utilize essential nutrients. Roundworm larvae travel to the mammary glands and infect puppies through their mother's milk. Roundworms can also travel to the lungs and cause respiratory illnesses.
Pyrantel pamoate effectively kills worms residing in the pet's intestine. However, some worms that are still migrating in the pet's body will remain active. For this reason the de-worming medication will have to be repeated after a short period of time.
Although pyrantel pamoate is useful in the elimination of canine hookworms and roundworms it does have certain side effects.
Side Effects Include:
- Diarrhea
- Straining to defecate
- Vomiting
Precautions When Administering Strongid T
- Some dogs are allergic to active ingredients such as pyrantel pamoate.
- Dogs may pass worms in diarrhea.
- Avoid use in severely ill pets as it could cause complications.
- Exert caution when administering dosage on very young pets.
- Don't use pyrantel pamoate in combination with organophosphate insecticides or drugs such as morantel or piperazine.
- Although safe for use in lactating pets, it's important to consult your vet before administering Strongid T.
Dosage of Pyrantel Pamoate
Dogs are usually given pyrantel pamoate at 2.5 mg to 5 mg per pound of body weight. Since Strongid T is particularly administered to horses and ponies to treat worm infections, make sure you discuss the appropriate dosage suited to your dog with your vet. Remember to read and follow package instructions before you treat your pet. In most cases, follow up de-worming medication is necessary. Strongid T is available as a suspension medication of 1 quart bottles and since it's flavored, it's more palatable to animals.
Along with de-worming medication, prevention of infection is vital. Appropriate disposal of dog feces and routine fecal exams will help control worm infections in pets. Dogs shouldn't be allowed to play in soil or plants as they are sources of high contamination. Once pets are completely cured of worm infections, most vets recommend year round preventive worming medication.