Food Grade Diatomaceuous Earth For De-Worming Dogs: Does it Really Work?
More and more dog owners are seeking holistic solutions for their dogs
Today, more and more people are considering feeding more and more natural foods to their pets, vaccinating their pets more sparingly, and resorting to natural remedies as opposed to traditional medications, for treating their pets from a variety of ailments.
Pesky parasites are difficult to remove without resorting to products that are toxic. Yes, they will not kill a dog, but they must kill the parasites, therefore dogs are ingesting toxins but at a low dose that does not cause any (at least visible) harmful effects.
Some people are resorting to garlic to kill and repel intestinal parasites, but unfortunately, garlic has also side effects. According to veterinarian, Jennifer Prince, ''Garlic and onion are used as flavor enhancers in food. Since the toxic amount is unknown,it is recommended not to add it to your pet's food. These ingredients can cause Heinz body anemia, resulting in a breakdown of the red blood cells and anemia.”
Considering Food Grade DE for Deworming Dogs
One option not many dog owners are aware of is Food Grade Diatamaceous Earth. DE is the abbreviation used for Diatamaceous Earth. It is imperative to use only Food Grade, as some forms of DE can be toxic, like the DE used for swimming pool filters or the DE advertised as "insecticidal" . So if you are considering to give DE a try, it is your responsibility to find a seller that produces the food grade variety.
But what is DE exactly? DE is a white powder composed by ground diatoms, single-celled plants (phytoplankton) that live in the sea by the billions. When these diatoms die, they leave a deposit creating therefore the diatamaceous earth. DE is mined from underwater beds or ancient dried lake bottoms found in the western part of the US and other parts of the world, according to Wolf Creek Ranch.
This website suggests feeding dogs according to this table:
Dogs under 35 lbs. - 1 teaspoon
Dogs over 35 lbs. - 1 tablespoon
Dogs over 100 lbs. - 2 tablespoons
According to: veterinarian O. C. Collins, of Midland Animal Clinic and Hospital, Midland, Texas:
''In clinical observations of feeding dogs over 35 lbs. 1 tablespoon/day and under 35 lbs. 1 teaspoon/day of diatomaceous earth, within seven days all ova disappeared from stools. Diatomaceous Earth controlled Ascarids (Toxacara canis), Hookworms (Anclyostoma caninum), and Whipworms (Trichuris vulipis).
Considerations
- In order to work, DE should be administered for at least 30 days against
roundworms, whipworms, or hookworms, since DE does not kill eggs.
- It is recommended to have a fecal run by your vet after 30 days of administering DE earth. If the count for parasites and ova are not zero, consider increasing the daily dose.
Natural remedies from the comfort of your home
Precautions
- Inhaling DE can causes respiratory problems in those suffering from asthma or other lung problems. It is recommended to wear a mask when using this product.
- Prevent the DE from getting into the eyes since it has a drying effect. Flush wit water and if discomfort should persist call your doctor.
- Never use pool filter grade DE! Use only food grade DE, other types may be toxic!
For further reading
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