Treatment entails deworming the pregnant dog multiple times starting in the third trimester (day 42 of pregnancy) through the second week of lactation. Puppies also will need to be treated with a dewormer that is safe for young animals. Safe and effective deworming medications such as fenbendazole or pyrantel pamoate will eliminate a large percentage of the roundworm eggs.
Puppies should be treated for worms soon after birth and every two weeks thereafter until the animal is 12 weeks of age. Treatment schedules vary based on the environment and the degree of worm infestation. The examining veterinarian can recommend the most safe and effective drug, dose, and schedule for an individual mother and puppies. Use caution if purchasing over-the-counter dewormers since many do not eliminate all of the types of roundworms that can infect a dog.
