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How long can hookworms live in my pet's gut and how do I treat them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 30 lbs

How long do hookworms last.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2019

Hookworms can live in the GI tract for a very long time, continually reproducing & causing damage to the walls of the gut. Removal is quite easy with an appropriate wormer like Pyrantel. Once the wormer hits the intestines, the worms will die. It is always a good idea to retreat in 2-4 weeks & then put your pup on a heartworm preventative that will also deworm on a monthly basis & prevent reinfestation. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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