If 2 dogs are in the same yard and 1 gets whipworm, does the other one have it also?

Question

My Boxer, who is on HeartGuardPlus, was diagnosed with whipworm (fecal exam) It was explained to me that they live in the earth and that is how the dog contracted them. My other Boxer, in the same yard, for the same amount of time, was given the wormer also. HGP does not want to pay for the second Boxers treatment as there was no fecal done. While HGP does not put it on their label, they say it prevents whipworms also.

Answer 1

Yes, your other dog likely has whipworm infestation also. Unfortunately, whips are nearly impossible rid from your environment (literature rec's burning or paving, which aren't yard options for most of us). In my area, Heartgard plus is NOT labeled for whipworm, only heartworm, roundworm, and hookworm. If you were my client (I'm a vet), I would treat both dogs and begin a different heartworm preventative (interceptor, for example), that IS labeled for whips. Good luck!

Answer 2

Whipworms do live in the earth for 7 years. If one dog has it then it is very likely that the other dog has it as well. I would switch your dogs to interceptor. It's the same price as HGP and it states on the label that it covers all the same parasites and includes whipworm. I'm not sure why HGP doesn't list whipworms on it's label, but if it's not boasting about it then I wouldn't assume that it does a good job with whipworms.

Answer 3

I dont think that Heartgard Plus prevents whipworms. I just had my dogs tested today, and they all have whipworms. I think that Heartgard only protects against Heart Worms, round worms, and hook worms.

Answer 4

Chances are most likely he does. I would treat both the same. HGP will do whatever it has to not to pay. Next year try Revolution. It does Heartworm, intestinal parasites, fleas and ticks.