Rabbit Ears Deworm? Debunking the Myth!
In the realm of natural pet care, rabbit ears have gained a reputation as a miracle anthelmintic, believed to effectively treat parasite burdens in dogs' guts.
However, this claim lacks substantial evidence, and to date, there is no scientific research supporting the notion that furry rabbit ears serve as an effective deworming agent. While it's true that any fur-on chew may have a positive impact on a dog's gut health by assisting with cleansing, it's essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to natural remedies.
Fur is not a Recognised Anthelmintic
Despite being a favourite natural chew in many households, furry rabbit ears are not recognised as a legitimate anthelmintic by veterinary experts. Anthelmintics are substances used to expel parasitic worms from the body, and while rabbit ears may aid in intestinal cleansing, they do not possess the specific properties necessary to combat worm infestations effectively.
Prevention and Treatment of Worm Burdens
With the over-prescription of chemical parasite treatments leading to an increase in anthelmintic resistance, pet owners are turning to alternative methods for preventing and treating worm burdens in their dogs. A healthy gut plays a crucial role in reducing the likelihood of parasite infestations, and a fresh diet rich in natural ingredients can significantly contribute to this.
There are various natural anthelmintics that can be incorporated into a dog's diet to prevent worm infestations, including;
organic ground pumpkin seed
crushed fresh garlic
apple cider vinegar
wormwood
Additionally, there are numerous natural manufactured products available globally that have been successfully used to prevent and treat worms.
Regular worm counts are essential for monitoring a dog's internal gut health and detecting any parasite burdens early on. Conducting worm counts every three months can provide a clear picture of the dog's health status and help prevent the escalation of worm infestations.
Harnessing the Power of Cucurbitacin: A Natural Deworming Compound
In the pursuit of natural deworming solutions, researchers have turned their attention to cucurbitacin, a compound found in pumpkin seeds.
A 2008 scientific study conducted by Delaware State University evaluated the effect of pumpkin seeds in reducing parasite loads in goats, shedding light on the potential of cucurbitacin as a natural anthelmintic.
The study found that pumpkin seeds, rich in cucurbitacin, demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing parasite burdens in goats. This promising research suggests that cucurbitacin holds potential as a natural deworming compound for not only goats but potentially other animals as well, including dogs. Incorporating cucurbitacin-rich foods like pumpkin seeds into a dog's diet may offer an additional layer of protection against intestinal parasites, further supporting the importance of natural alternatives in pet care practices.
The 2008 study from Delaware State University Cooperative Extension can be found here.
Rich Sources of Cucurbitacin
While pumpkin seeds are a well-known source of cucurbitacin, there are other foods that are also rich in this natural deworming compound and can be safely incorporated into a dog's diet. Some of these foods include:
Squash: Varieties such as butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash are all rich in cucurbitacin and can be served cooked or pureed for dogs.
Cucumber: This hydrating vegetable is not only low in calories but also contains cucurbitacin, making it a healthy snack option for dogs.
Courgette/Zucchini: Another member of the squash family, zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be grated, steamed, or sliced and served raw to provide dogs with the benefits of cucurbitacin.
Incorporating these cucurbitacin-rich foods into a dog's diet can not only provide natural deworming benefits but also offer essential nutrients and hydration for overall health and well-being. However, it's essential to introduce new foods gradually and in moderation to prevent digestive upset, and always consult with a holistic veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet.
Other ways to prevent worms naturally
1.Garlic for dogs is a topic of much debate within the community. A simple Google search for "Garlic for Dogs" yields numerous websites warning about its toxicity due to its relation to onions. However, the adage "the dose makes the poison" rings true here—every substance has a lethal dose. When given in the right amount, garlic can be far from toxic and offers numerous health benefits for your furry friend.Most commonly, pet parents use garlic to repel fleas, ticks, and worms, but its benefits extend beyond pest control. Garlic boasts antiseptic, antibiotic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. It can serve as an anthelmintic, acting as a deworming agent, and acts as a potent expectorant, aiding in the expulsion of phlegm or mucus from the airway. Additionally, garlic can help lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.
When giving garlic to your dog, it's crucial to use fresh garlic, preferably organic. Chop the garlic and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the release of allicin, its active compound. Avoid feeding garlic to puppies under six months old, pregnant or whelping bitches, and certain Japanese breeds. It is particularly unsuitable for dogs on blood thinners and should be eliminated from their diet two weeks before and after surgery due to its blood-thinning properties. Always consult with your holistic veterinarian regarding medications and dosage recommendations.
Start with small doses and gradually increase to no more than 2/3 teaspoon of garlic per 10 kilograms of dog weight to ensure safe and effective usage. With proper administration, garlic can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
2.Diatomaceous Earth (DE); also known as Silicon Dioxide, is a powdered dietary supplement derived from fossilised water plants called Diatoms.
While Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is touted as a natural dewormer, it's essential to note that it can be harsh on the digestive tract, especially if not used properly. DE, composed of fossilized water plants called Diatoms, is believed to have deworming properties, but recent studies suggest its efficacy may be limited. One of the challenges with DE is its abrasive nature, which can irritate the digestive tract if not adequately mixed with moist food. Furthermore, accidental inhalation of DE powder during feeding poses a risk to the respiratory system. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using DE as a deworming agent for dogs, and it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian before incorporating it into your pet's regimen.
3.Herbal "Intestinal Hygiene Control”products offered by various companies aim to create an adverse gut environment to naturally repel and expel parasites.
These products are available in the form of small biscuit treats or liquids, such as those provided by Verm-X or tinctures like Four Seasons. They offer a cost-effective means of natural prevention and are typically administered as a daily dose for three days a week or, in the case of tinctures, once a month. Higher doses may be necessary for preventing lungworm infestations.
4.Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) has emerged as another natural remedy for treating worms in dogs. This extract, derived from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit, is known for its antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. While research on its efficacy specifically for deworming dogs is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that GSE may help reduce parasite loads in the digestive system.
GSE is believed to work by disrupting the cell membranes of parasites, making it difficult for them to survive and reproduce in the body. It is often administered orally, either directly or mixed with food or water.
However, it's essential to use caution when using GSE, as its potency can vary, and excessive doses may lead to digestive upset or other adverse reactions.As with any natural remedy, it's crucial to consult with a holistic veterinarian before using grapefruit seed extract to treat worms in dogs.
Addressing Positive Worm Counts
In the event of a positive worm count, the appropriate course of action depends on the severity of the infestation. For low worm burdens, treating with natural anthelmintics or previously recommended natural remedies may be sufficient.
However, for medium to high worm burdens or lungworm infestations, older parasitical drugs with a lower incidence of adverse side effects may be recommended, followed by a detox protocol.
Regardless of the treatment method chosen, it is crucial to conduct follow-up worm counts 2-3 weeks after medication administration to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure that the dog is clear of the parasite burden.
You can find global worm count providers on our global parasite guide here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while rabbit ears may offer some benefits for gut health, they should not be relied upon as a sole method of deworming. By focusing on a holistic approach to pet care, incorporating natural anthelmintics, maintaining a healthy diet, and conducting regular worm counts, pet owners can effectively manage and prevent worm infestations in their canine companions.
Don’t forget to check out our global natural parasite prevention and treatment product guide linked here.
