Tapeworm Treatment with Drontal Plus for Small Dogs

Tapeworm treatment for small dogs with Drontal® Plus is an effective means to quickly rid your dog of this parasitic infection. Drontal Plus is FDA approved and recommended for dogs a minimum of 3 weeks old, and weighing at least 2 lbs. This medication works by destroying the tapeworm organism and allowing the immune system to remove the infection.

Tapeworms in Dogs

Tapeworms are parasites which attach themselves to a dog's small intestine. Fleas become infected with the tapeworm eggs by ingesting them from infected feces. Fleas then carry an immature form of the tapeworm inside their bodies. When a dog bites at a flea infestation on the skin, it's possible to ingest one or more infected fleas. These fleas are then broken down in the dog's intestines leaving the tapeworm to mature into adulthood.

As tapeworms mature, segments, each having its own reproductive system, may break off and pass through the dog's rectum, often in the feces. Tapeworm segments are mobile, and each segment contains live eggs. Tapeworm segments resemble bits of rice and may be seen in the feces, or dried around the fur near the dog's anus.

Treatment of Tapeworms with Drontal Plus

Treating tapeworms with Drontal Plus is generally easy and effective. This medication includes an ingredient called praziquantel which works by damaging the internal structure of the tapeworm. This parasite will then disintegrate allowing the natural processes of the immune system to clear the dog's system of infection. Drontal Plus is given as a single dose. It comes in the form of a chewable pill or beef flavored Taste Tab. Either of these may be given with food. This is a prescription medication given in doses based upon the size of your dog. This pill will not prevent further tapeworm infestation. The best prevention remedy is effective treatment of fleas.

Side Effects of Drontal Plus

While side effects of this medication are generally rare, it's possible that your dog may experience unwanted effects. Vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea may indicate overdose. Do not use this product in conjunction with any other deworming medication, and be sure the dosage is proper for the weight of your dog. Generally speaking, small dogs will receive between 1/2 and 2 1/2 tablets.  

Additional Information

Drontal Plus is effective not only against tapeworms, but also other types of parasitic infestations like hookworms, roundworms and whipworms. While this medication is given in one dose, a follow-up dose may be given for 1 to 3 weeks after initial treatment. You should avoid treatment using this medication in dogs who are pregnant.

Due to the parasitic nature of this infection, all areas the dog frequently uses, like bedding areas, rugs and furniture, should be thoroughly cleaned. Note that rodents can serve as an intermediate host of tapeworms. If your dog frequently catches and ingests wild rodents such as mice or voles, there may be a potential risk, even in the absence of flea infestation.

 

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