Most of the current treatment options for hookworms in dogs that are available today, are only effective in killing adult hookworms. Because of this, it is very important that treatment be continued for a set period of time, depending on the veterinary instructions. In some severe cases, supplemental treatment must be peformed in order to treat the symptoms of a hookworm infection, before measures are taken to eradicate the adult hookworms.
In some severe cases of hookworm infestations, especially in puppies, a blood transfusion must be peformed before anti-worming treatment is initiated.
A hookworm infection may cause moderate to severe anemia, which is more likely to negatively impact puppies and younger dogs at early stages.
To treat the anemic condition of a dog infected with hookworms, it may be necessary for a veterinarian to perform a blood transfusion. However, this treatment is only used in very severe cases, or if a dog's life is in immediate danger.
The drug known as Fenbendazole is also marketed under the brand-name Panacur. This drug is used in many different parasitic infections, such as hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and whipworms. In some cases, this medication may also be used to treat medical conditions such as giardia, or "flukes". Like all anti-hookworm medications, Fenbendazole must be repeated more than once (as a treatment), in order to ensure that all of the adult worms present in a dog's system are eradicated. Side effects are relatively rare, but may be seen in some dogs.
This drug is commonly used to treat both hookworms (all of the species) and roundworms in domesticated animals. This deworming agent is made with a combination of pamoic acid and pyrantel. It is sometimes combined with other anti-worming medications, in order to ensure maximum effectiveness. It is usually administered orally, and is marketed by some companies as a flavored, chewable tablet. Like other anti-worming medications, Pyrantel Pamoate must be repeated at least twice, in order to completely eradicate all adult worms. This medication acts as a paralyzing agent, though only affects the hookworms in a dog's intestines. Since the drug is not absorbed by a dog's system, it does not commonly have adverse paralyzing effects on a dog's internal organs.
Once the worms are paralyzed, they are no longer to remain attached to a dog's intestinal wall. When this occurs, the worms are passed through the intestines, and expelled with fecal material. If this process is repeated as all adult worms mature, it is very effective in treating a hookworm infection.