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My dog has hookworms. What safety steps should I take for my family?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 11 months and 28 days old

(I asked this question already but typed the wrong type of worms instead) My dog was recently diagnosed with hookworms, what extent of caution should we take? Should all sheets and bedding be washed? Should we wear gloves when petting her? Should we wipe the floors down? Does she have to be kept separate until the worms are gone?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on December 29th, 2017

I have attached a handout below with more information for you.
https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1530
Hookworm eggs are not immediately infectious, so there is no need to wash sheets and bedding. Similarly, there isn't any need to wear gloves when petting Lady or wipe the floor. Humans are most commonly infected from soil that is contaminated with hookworm larvae, so it would not be recommended to go outside barefoot to help prevent infection. Here is more information on humans.
https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/hookworm/index.html
The best way to prevent infection to yourself or other dogs is to keep Lady and any other dogs on a monthy heartworm preventative that also includes a dewormer for hookworms. And right now, be sure to pick up her stool immediately after she goes, so the eggs don't have time to hatch and get into the soil
Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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