Canine Whipworm Treatment with Fenbendazole

Whipworms, also known as Trichuris campanula, are intestinal parasites that are common in dogs of all age groups and varying breeds. Whipworms are thin at one end and thicker in shape at the posterior end. They thrive in the large intestine and cause intestinal inflammation. Before examining whipworm treatment options, it’s necessary to understand how dogs contract whipworms to better control parasite infections.

Contraction of Whipworm Infection

Pets become infected with whipworms if they ingest contaminated soil that contains whipworm ova. Once the ova are ingested, it hatches in the intestine and becomes attached to the intestinal wall. Whipworms develop into adult worms by feeding on the pet’s blood. The adult worms multiply and lay eggs that in turn pass through pet feces.

Diagnosis of Canine Whipworms 

The most common clinical sign of whipworm infection is intestinal inflammation. Pets may also suffer from anemia and weight loss. The vet will conduct a fecal examination to detect the presence of whipworm eggs. Although this test is useful, it shouldn’t be solely relied on, as female whipworms release eggs at intervals, so fecal exams may show no presence of whipworm eggs during a microscopic examination. Whipworm infections are not life-threatening conditions and once a correct diagnosis is established, pets can be given medication to eliminate the whipworms.

Medication for Whipworms:

  • Sentinel
  • Panacur C
  • Advantage Multi
  • Drontal Plus

Fenbendazole

Fenbendazole is an ingredient that’s often incorporated in other worm medications used to treat hookworms and heartworms. It’s a benzimadazole anthelmentic medication that can be safely administered to pets to treat intestinal parasites. Fenbendazole is commonly available in drugs such as Panacur C. Although pet owners should follow dosage instructions determined by the vet, the general dosage is 25mg per pound of body weight. The medication works to damage cell function in intestinal parasites.

Usage of Fenbendazole (Panacur C)

Pet owners should read and follow package instructions to determine the exact dosage suited to their pet. The medicine may be combined with pet food for easy administration. The ideal course of treatment is, once a day for a period of three consecutive days. Although fenbendazole is available as an over the counter drug, pet owners should only use it as a treatment option after verification of the type of intestinal parasite present in the dog’s intestine. The side effects of fenbendazole, such as loose stools, are experienced by only a few pets. The medication is available in powder form in varying packet sizes.

Caring for Pets

Vets generally recommend a second treatment after 2 months to prevent re-infection. Since whipworm are easily contracted through contaminated soil and water, pets should be prevented from roaming outdoors, especially amidst plants. Several pets also contract the infection during self-grooming. Care takers should routinely bathe pets, and conduct fecal exams at least twice a year to detect intestinal parasites. Pets that pass bloody stools should also be examined by the vet to treat infections in time.

Most commercial heartworm medications protect pets against whipworms. Routine grooming and preventive treatments provide a long term solution for intestinal parasites.

 

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