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My puppy has worms again. How do they get them & do pills work?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 16 days old | 88 lbs

Hi! My puppy Is being dewormed for 3 days because the fecal test shows that he has parasites, but the last month (6/9) I dewormed him. For curiosity, how the dog get the worms or parasites and is it possible to prevent it. And last, how I know that the pills are working. Thank you very much.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 15th, 2017

It depends on what type of parasites he has. Different parasites are infective in different ways. For instance, tapeworms are infective after the pet ingests a flea, while Hookworms can be found in the environment (soil). So just because a pet is dewormed one time, the current worm load is removed from their system, but then that same pet can be re-infected at a later date if exposed to the worms again. So the preventative measure again depends on the type of worm that your pet was found to have been infected with. Also, just to note. Most worm infections require a 2nd dose in 2 weeks, because of the worms life cycle, except for Tapeworm infestations. Feel free to repost your question with the specific worm that Wally was infected with for more specific recommendations. Best wishes and take care.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    There are many different types of parasites and it may be that your puppy had a parasite that was not susceptible to the dewormer used. Use the medication as directed. Your vet can then re-test a stool sample to make sure it is gone.

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