Deworming Services for Pets

Deworming isn’t only recommended when your dog or cat has a confirmed parasite infection. Deworming is also a necessary preventative step to ensure they stay parasite-free. Depending on your dog or cat’s age and stage of life, we’ll recommend the best deworming medication to show worms the boot.

How could my puppy/kitten have been exposed to worms?

Almost all puppies are born with intestinal parasites, which are passed from mother to pup during pregnancy. Although kittens are not infected when they’re born, they can become infected through their mother’s milk. Puppies can also become infected while they’re nursing. Puppies and kittens should both be dewormed every 2 weeks, starting at about 2 weeks of age for puppies and 3 weeks of age for kittens. After the biweekly series of dewormings is finished, monthly deworming should begin (at about 8 to 9 weeks of age for kittens and 12 weeks of age for puppies).

Which worms are most likely to infect my dog/cat?

Dogs are more likely to be infected with worms because their bodies are more hospitable to internal parasites. Some of the most common include hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms, which all live in their intestines. Sometimes, it’s unlikely you'll even be able to see worms in your dog or cat’s poop. Many worms are only detectable under a microscope when we examine a fecal sample in our lab. If you notice any of the following signs of a parasite infection, you should contact us immediately at 416-928-6761:

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Coughing 
• Rapid weight loss 
• Scooting 

How often should adult dogs be dewormed?

We recommend deworming at least once per year. However, deworming shouldn’t be your only method for preventing worms. Your dog or cat should be taking a monthly preventive, which usually comes in the form of oral medication or topical cream. You should also practice good hygiene after handling your dog or cat’s feces.