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My puppy has tapeworms, but I don't see fleas. How did this happen?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 6 days old | 12 lbs

My puppy doesn't have fleas but has tapeworms. Is it possible she swallowed one while being raised with her mother?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 26th, 2019

Hello. Yes, that is one way a pet can get tapeworms, by ingesting an infected flea. Regardless, you should have no problems treating Penny with a tape worm medication containing praziquantel. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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