I am not sure how much scientific evidence there is yet but I do know that many allergy researchers are hypothesizing that since humans and our domestic animals have evolved with common parasites, our immune systems are not sure what to do if they don't have to fight them resulting in allergies. There are worms you don't want and worms that it is probably better that you do get. I hold off worming as long as I can but definitely do worm the pups at some point though.
I taught immunology at the college level. There is indeed evidence that we (and our dogs) are more plagued with allergies because our environments are too clean when we are young. The balance within the immune system may need antigens to "practice" on. Parasitic worms in particular are fought by some of the cells and antibodies ( IgEs and eosinophils) that figure in true allergic reactions.
For those with a genetic predisposition toward allergies, does having to fight general parasites prior to the development of a hyperactive immune system increase the odds of having a normal immune system? My understanding is "yes" but again, I think this is more at the hypothesis level. Another poster seemed to think there was specific research supporting this hypothesis.
Maybe some have such strong genetic predispositions to allergies that environmental influences don't matter much???
Happy medium/balance must also be an important part of it.
Cool discussion...thanks for sharing your experience.
Many are under the wrong assumption that adult dogs who get their monthly Heartworm Pill are killing adult worms in the gut. The product only kills larve.
Labradors because they put anything and everything into their mouths can get worms of any type. Yes they get them from their mothers too.
Adult hunting dogs or those who are exposed to the environment need twice annual deworming with Fenbendazole/ Panacur even if signs of worms are not present. Otherwise you run the risk of an major worm infestation that can be deadly.
As far as allergies, worms actually can be the cause as they can ulcerated the lining of the gut and cause leaky gut syndrome that allows the immune system to see food as an invader.
Worm your dogs, it is not something good for their immune system . All worms eventually will go to the lungs if not treated. It can become a fatal disease if it gets that far along.
No one cares what you have to say Romeo Lover, you make no sense at all.... to all others thank you for the information, I guess we shall see with time what happens with these babies