Hello, I am fostering two 8 week old puppies. They have had three dewormers and are due for fourth on 29th. Yesterday they both had a few living would looked to be ALIVE tapeworms. I told the rescue...told me to do nothing. This morning one pooped two piles of straight ALIVE roundworms. They are still brushing off and I’m sitting here bawling. Should I take them to the vet despite orders? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 10 lbs

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your foster puppies. That is a tricky situation with the foster group. I do believe that the puppies require veterinary care. Fecal testing should be performed as puppies many times have multiple parasites. This allows the doctor to pick the best medication or medications to treat them. Some parasites, including roundworms can be transmitted to people. Transmission to humans is rare, but having infected puppies in your home could place you at risk. Tapeworms are most commonly spread to dogs through the ingestion of rodents or if the puppies have fleas. Flea control may be discussed. I recommend telling the rescue group about your decision to seek veterinary care and see if there is a veterinarian that they prefer that you use. Ultimately, the puppies need to be seen. I hope this information helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I recommend that you have her evaluated by a veterinarian to start her on a deworming medication. It looks like this could be tapeworms but they would be able to take a look up close and decide. Then they can use the best dewormer for her. Usually treating worms is inexpensive and effective. Best of luck!