Can I be exposed to parasites if I lay in bed with a puppy that has not been dewormed?

Risk of Parasite Exposure from Undewormed Puppies in Bed

Yes, you can be exposed to parasites when laying in bed with an undewormed puppy, particularly through contact with fecal material that may contain infectious parasite eggs or larvae.

Types of Parasites and Transmission Risk

• Puppies commonly carry intestinal parasites that can be transmitted to humans, including roundworms (Toxocara canis), hookworms, and tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) 1, 2
• Transmission typically occurs through:
  • Direct contact with puppy feces or contaminated fur 3
  • Accidental ingestion of parasite eggs after touching the puppy and then touching your mouth or food 3, 1
  • In the case of tapeworms, ingestion of infected fleas that may be on the puppy 4, 5

Health Risks to Humans

• Toxocara canis (dog roundworm) can cause visceral larva migrans when larvae penetrate the gut mucosa and enter the bloodstream 1
• Symptoms of parasite infection from puppies may include:
  • Respiratory symptoms (cough, wheezing, dyspnea) 1
  • Abdominal pain 1
  • Skin irritation and itching 1
  • Urticarial rash 1
• Young puppies pose a higher risk as they are more likely to have parasites and shed them in greater numbers 3, 6

Prevention Strategies

• Have your puppy dewormed according to veterinary guidelines, which typically recommend:

  • Starting deworming at 2-3 weeks of age 7
  • Regular deworming treatments every 2-4 weeks until 12 weeks of age 8, 9
  • Continued treatments based on the puppy's risk factors 8

• Practice good hygiene when interacting with puppies:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling the puppy, especially before eating 3
  • Avoid allowing the puppy to lick your face 1
  • Regularly clean bedding where the puppy sleeps 3
  • Promptly clean up any puppy feces 3

• Consider limiting close contact (such as bed sharing) until after the puppy has completed its initial deworming protocol 3

Special Considerations

• Children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for complications from zoonotic parasites 2, 6
• If you're concerned about exposure, consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you develop symptoms 1
• Have your veterinarian examine your puppy's stool for parasites 3

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't assume a puppy is parasite-free just because it appears healthy; many parasitic infections show no obvious symptoms in puppies 8, 6
• Don't delay deworming treatments; puppies should begin deworming protocols at a young age 7, 9
• Don't forget that parasite eggs can remain viable in the environment (including bedding) for extended periods 3