My dog has diarrhea with white specks. Is it tapeworm or parasites?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 21st, 2018

  Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Max!
  
  Small worm segments that look like long-grain rice tend to be tape worm. Dogs get them from ingesting fleas, as the flea is the intermediate host. You should treat all animals in the house with a good flea preventative. The tapeworm is likely from a previous flea issue not a current one. Below is a link to a dewormer that gets tapeworm.
  
  I wish you the best!
  https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=1459
  

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 20th, 2017

  White rice-like material in the stool is typically indicative of tapeworm segments. Animals acquire tapeworms either by eating fleas or rodents infected with tapeworms. None of the medications Blu Bear is on currently are likely to treat tapeworms. Closely examine him for the presence of fleas or flea dirt (resembling a fleck of pepper that turns reddish-brown when moistened). Consider switching from the preventative collar to Nexgard, Bravest or Advantix for flea and tick prevention if you find the presence of fleas. Panacur is a broad spectrum dewormer that treats tapeworms and is available in most pet stores.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 6th, 2020

  You are not overreacting. It looks like Teegan has grains of rice in her poop, which indicates tapeworms. You need a specific medication to treat them, praziquantel, which is prescription only. I would get Drontal from her vet to treat this, it contains praziquantel and is excellent. As tapeworms are transmitted by fleas to dogs, you will need to flea treat her as well. First, I would give her Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30. minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash her bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. I hope this helps!

  

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• Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 11th, 2017

  Hi, I'm Dr. Johnson. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach
  
  Tape worm segments are usually small and white about the size of a piece of rice. they usually move and crawl! Pretty gross.
  
  Just be sure that Kilo is on flea preventatives. Dogs get tapeworm from ingesting an infected flea.
  
  I'd call your Vet and drop off a fecal sample to have it tested. Pick up a dewormer and flea medications.
  
  Good luck!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful