How to Eliminate Whipworms in Soil

Quck answer

Whipworms are parasitic worms that can infect soil and cause harm to humans and animals. To kill whipworms in soil, you can follow these steps:

1. Remove any organic material from the soil, as whipworms thrive in organic matter.

2. Use a garden rake or shovel to turn the soil, exposing it to sunlight and drying it out. Whipworm eggs cannot survive in dry conditions.

3. Apply a commercial pesticide or a natural alternative, such as neem oil or diatomaceous earth, to the soil to kill whipworms and their eggs.

4. Repeat the process regularly, as whipworm eggs can survive for years in the soil.

By following these steps, you can effectively kill whipworms in soil and prevent their spread. Remember to always wear gloves and follow safety instructions when using pesticides.


Once you have dealt with your dog’s internal whipworm issue using appropriate medication, the next challenge is to eradicate whipworms from your yard to prevent re-infestation. Whipworm eggs have the ability to survive freezing temperatures and extreme heat. They can remain in the soil for many years, and female whipworms can lay up to 2000 eggs per day. Topical treatments are unlikely to be effective. The only way to eliminate whipworms from the soil in your yard is to get down and dirty and put in a lot of effort.

Step 1

In any area where your dog has access to roam freely in your yard, use a shovel to remove the top six inches of soil. Replace it with fresh topsoil and grass. If the area is too large to completely remove the soil, you can use a garden tiller to stir up the soil. In this case, you will need to apply potent chemicals to the soil and mix them in thoroughly. The best option is agricultural lime, as it will dry out the soil and kill whipworm eggs.

Step 2

Clean any hard surfaces that are porous and could still harbor whipworm eggs, such as concrete, brick or stone paths, driveways, or patios, using bleach.

Step 3

Regularly spread food-grade diatomaceous earth over the top layer of soil to eliminate new whipworms before they can burrow into the soil. It is also important to reapply the diatomaceous earth after heavy rainfall, especially if your yard is not fenced and stray dogs have access to it.

Step 4

Immediately remove any fresh feces from your yard after your dog defecates, using a pooper scooper or a hand covered with a baggie. Even after treatment, your dog may still pass whipworms in its stool for several days. It is always a good idea to keep your yard free from waste that can attract pests.

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