Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is testing dogs on Trifexis for parasites before a new puppy overkill?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have 2 dogs and am bringing home a new puppy in a month. The puppy will, of course, get dewormings. My dogs are on Trifexis. A new vet says we should have our current dogs' stools tested for parasites before the puppy comes home. Is this overkill given that they are on Trifexis and the puppy will get dewormed?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

Published on July 7th, 2017

What your new vet is suggesting is definitely the best preventative medicine, but I wouldn't say you are doing the new puppy a disservice by not doing this. There really is no right or wrong answer, it simply comes down to what you decide to do. At the end of the day, if any of the pets are positive for parasites the recommendation would be to treat them all with a dewormer. Another piece of information to consider is that lots of puppies are born with intestinal parasites that they get from their mothers in utero. I say that to say the puppy is the new comer and will be treated regardless, your other dogs have been on prevention (which doesn't cover all parasites) and have more established immune systems. Hope this information aids in your decision making! Congratulations on your (soon to be) new addition!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Personally I would be satisfied that things are well under control with your use of trifexis. I think if you are giving it every month it is unlikely your dogs will have an issue. Maybe your vet is worried about resistance and wants to super safe. At the end if the day it is completely up to you what gets done, but it sounds like you are already a very responsible owner.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do my hermit crab's mites keep returning? How to get rid of them?
Is your hermit crab battling recurring mites? A certified veterinarian explains why these persistent mites keep coming back and how to effectively address them. Get expert advice!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my chicken pale, tired, not laying, and pooping neon yellow?
Is your pet chicken pale, tired, or pooping neon yellow? A Licensed Vet Tech shares vital steps for your hen's concerning symptoms. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored