Written question asked by Lord Plumb (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Thursday, 24 May 2007.

Animal Welfare: Dogs

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will make mandatory the periodic worming of pet dogs in order to tackle the rise in liver damage to sheep attributed to more people with dogs visiting the countryside.

Answer: My department has no plans to make the worming of dogs mandatory. However, we advise that adult dogs should be wormed at least every six months. Pregnant bitches and bitches with young puppies should be wormed more frequently. It is essential that puppies are wormed when they are about two weeks old and then treated at regular intervals until they are at least six months old. Products should be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and veterinary advice should always be sought before worming puppies or if the owner has any doubt as to the timing, dosage or selection of the appropriate product.

Secondary information