What to Do if Your Dog Contracts a Parasite

If your dog is diagnosed with a parasite, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent reinfection or transmission.

What Are Intestinal Parasites?

Intestinal parasites, such as hookworms, roundworms, and Giardia, are common in dogs and cats and can be transmitted to other animals – and even humans. These parasites can cause:

Diarrhea or vomiting
Weight loss or poor growth
Lethargy and dehydration
Serious health complications if left untreated

They are present in many outdoor environments, contaminated water, surfaces, etc. and are often carried by other animals, including wildlife which shed and spread through fecal matter. It’s important to note that parasites are not uncommon, especially in Florida. Unlike northern states, Florida does not get into freezing temperatures for long, allowing parasites to live all year.

Fecal parasites are a big deal, as some parasites are contagious to other animals—and even humans. If your dog is diagnosed with a parasite, here are some tips to help your pup make a speedy recovery:

Follow Veterinary Treatment Plans

Administer all prescribed medications exactly as directed by your vet. Missing doses or stopping treatment early can allow the parasite to persist.

Isolate Your Dog

Limit contact with other pets to prevent spreading the parasite. Avoid dog parks, daycare, or boarding until cleared by a vet.

Practice Strict Hygiene

Wash hands thoroughly after handling your dog, food bowls or waste to prevent transmission to humans.

Wash Your Dog

Bathe your dog during and after treatment to remove any parasites from their fur.

Clean Up Immediately

Pick up and dispose of feces promptly to prevent reinfection.

Sanitize Your Home and Yard

Clean and disinfect your home thoroughly, paying attention to areas your dog frequents. Use veterinary-grade disinfectants proven to kill parasite ova and cysts. Remove and dispose of feces in your yard daily to prevent reinfection. Use diatomaceous earth, a pet safe powder, to spot treat your yard.

Prevent Further Exposure

Avoid letting your dog drink from standing water, such as puddles or ponds. Limit access to areas where wildlife may roam, as they can carry and spread parasites.

Retest After Treatment

Visit your vet for a follow-up fecal test to ensure the infection is gone.

Utilize Preventatives and Routine Vet Checks

Routine fecal tests help catch parasites early and keep your pet healthy year-round. Ensure your dog is on a proper preventative.

At South Paw Canine Country Club we do things differently—and for good reason. The health and safety of every dog in our care is our top priority, which is why we go beyond standard boarding requirements. In addition to requiring the standard Rabies, Bordetella and Distemper (DHPP) vaccinations, we also require a yearly fecal parasite screening that includes Giardia testing—a step many facilities overlook. This extra level of care is what sets us apart, and we are proud to uphold these standards for the well-being of our canine guests.