There are many different types of dog and puppy parasites and most puppies are born infested with 'worms' - their mother can carry roundworms and infect puppies before they are even born. The generic term "worms" is usually used to describe Roundworms - the most common of all the canine worms. Severe infection, if left untreated, can create intestinal obstruction and even cause death in puppies. Please note that Roundworm can be carried from dogs to people.

Internal Worms - live off the dogs
Worms, including the Roundworm are the common name for Canine parasites which exist internally and externally. As internal parasites they live off the puppy or dog robbing them of vital nutrients needed to stay healthy. Left untreated, intestinal parasites will stunt the growth and weaken young puppies.

Worms - invade the environment and infect other dogs
Worm eggs, or larvae, are shed into the environment via feces and can infect other dogs or humans.

The Spread of Round Worms to People
The Spread of Parasitic Worms, including the Roundworm, can be transferred from one animal to another and from animals to humans. The biggest risk is to our children who often do not pay care and attention to basic sanitary and cleansing requirements.

Transmission and Prevention of Worms, including Roundworm
The risk of transmission and the spread of worms, including Roundworm, can be minimised by:

• Exercising sensible sanitary measures
• Ensuring all excrement is removed from pet areas
• Ensuring that hands are washed and clean after contact with the dog or puppy
• Ensure that all produce grown in the garden is washed thoroughly
• Ensure your dog is free of worms at regular intervals

Preventing or reducing the occurrence of dog and puppy worms by taking de-worming measures prevents the shedding of parasite eggs by your dog or puppy. These eggs contaminate the environment, and, as they can lay dormant for some considerable time, can later re-infect your dog or puppy.