Keeping Your Puppy Protected: Fleas, Worms and Heartworm

Young puppies are full of energy and curiosity, and keeping up with preventative care is one of the most important things you can do for their health. The good news is that protecting your puppy from common parasites is straightforward, and we are here to make it easy.

Worming

Puppies often pick up intestinal worms from their mother, other dogs, or the environment. The most common types are roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. Without regular worming, puppies can experience poor growth, a bloated belly, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Some worms can also be passed to humans, so regular treatment protects the whole family.

Worming Schedule

• Every two weeks until 12 weeks of age
• Monthly from 12 weeks until six months of age
• Every three months for life from six months onwards

Flea Prevention

Fleas can make puppies extremely itchy, but the impact goes beyond discomfort. They carry tapeworms, can trigger allergic skin reactions, and cause anaemia in young pups. Even indoor dogs are not immune, as fleas can enter the home on clothing, shoes, and other pets.

Signs of fleas include excessive scratching, biting at the skin, or tiny black specks (flea dirt) in the fur, particularly around the tail and belly area.

We recommend starting flea prevention from six to eight weeks of age and continuing monthly all year round. Flea collars and powders are not reliable options in most homes. We recommend newer, vet-approved treatments that are safe, effective, and easy to use.

Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes and can be fatal in dogs if left untreated. Prevention is straightforward and begins at twelve weeks of age. We offer a simple annual injection as an alternative to monthly treatments if that suits your lifestyle better. Ask our team which option is right for your puppy.

All-in-One Products

Many of the products we recommend combine protection against worms, fleas, and heartworm in a single monthly treatment, and some also cover mites or ticks depending on the brand. We will help you choose the right product for your puppy's age, weight, and lifestyle so you have confidence they are fully covered.

Book a Nurse Consult

Not sure which products are right for your puppy? Book a free nurse consult online, or give us a call on (03) 9592 9811. We are always happy to talk through your options.