Preventive Medication

Q: My puppy is an 11-week old Malshi. It is time for him to start his de-worming medication, which came with instructions to only give on a FULL stomach. So far, he eats frequently, stopping by the kibble several times a day. I doubt that he ever has a completely full stomach. He is playful and alert, and his stools are solid. Should I give him the de-worming meds as scheduled even though his stomach is not full?

A: Your question is in reference to albendazole which is sent to reduce the likely hood of problems from hookworms, whipworms and roundworms as well as an organism called giardia. It is important that it is given after a recent meal but the notion that his stomach has to be completely full is not necessary. Shake it up well and give it after he eats some food.