null

Flea, Tick And Worming for Puppies

Published Apr 29, 2022 | Last updated Nov 15, 2023

While they are still growing, your puppy’s immune system is still developing and not as resilient as an adult dog. So, it’s important to be proactive about your puppy’s parasite protection and to use appropriate products that are formulated for young dogs.

Check your pup regularly for ticks or other parasites and if they go into the bush often or if you live in tick infested areas, you should be checking your puppy at least once a day.

Here are some tips on how to check your pup for parasites

Ticks

  • Ticks love to hide in dark and moist places. So, when checking, pay extra attention to the ears, inside the mouth along the gum area, between the toes, under the collar, along the eyes and inside the arm pit areas and genital/bum area.
  • If you find a tick and don’t have a tick remover, it’s best to bring your pup to the vet to have it professionally removed. This is also a good chance for your vet to thoroughly check your pup to ensure there are no other ticks on their body.

Fleas

  • To check for fleas, push your dog’s fur against the grain until you see skin. Check for any red bumps or inflammation. You may also notice fleas crawling across the skin or jumping out.

Heartworm

  • Heartworms can't be seen by the human eye, but they can be life threatening for your pup as they grow. Signs and symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, sluggishness, reduced ability to exercise, and even loss of consciousness.

Parasitic Worms

  • Like heartworm, intestinal parasitic worms are not easy to spot. Occasionally you may see worms or worm segments in your pet’s faeces or vomit once they have established themselves in your pet. Other signs to look out for are a bloated tummy (common in puppies), unusual constant hunger, weight loss, & diarrhea.

Remember, even if your puppy spends most of their times indoors or in your yard, ticks and fleas can still be transmitted through your clothing or other pets. The cost of prevention is much cheaper and gentler than an emergency trip to the vet.

For more details on the different types of parasites, check out our Parasite Protection Guide.

There are a variety of parasite protection options for dogs available at PetO, ranging from washes to external drops and tablets. Come into store and speak to one of our expert team members who can help you choose the right parasite protection for your pup.

Related Articles

Checking Your Dog for Ticks & Fleas

Read more

Parasite Protection for Kittens

Read more

PURCHASE ACCEPTANCE

Please Note: "CUSTOMER SELF DECLARATION" By purchasing ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet, you acknowledge and agree that the following is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

  1. I confirm that my pet was examined by a Veterinarian who recommended the use of ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet on the basis of his/her diagnosis.
  2. I have read and understood that whilst my pet is being fed ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet, it is recommended that seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the usage of ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet.
  3. I have read and understood that I need to seek immediate veterinary advice if my pet's condition deteriorates in any way whilst I use ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet.

PURCHASE ACCEPTANCE

Please Note: "CUSTOMER SELF DECLARATION" By purchasing Hill’s Prescription Diet, you acknowledge and agree that the following is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

  1. I confirm that my pet was examined by a Veterinarian who recommended the use of Hill’s Prescription Diet on the basis of his/her diagnosis.
  2. I have read and understood that whilst my pet is being fed Hill’s Prescription Diet, it is recommended that I seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the usage of Prescription Diet.
  3. I have read and understood that I need to seek immediate veterinary advice if my pet's condition deteriorates in any way whilst I use Hill’s Prescription Diet