Worms can cause a range of health issues in dogs, including weight loss, diarrhoea, vomiting, and a general decline in energy levels.
The presence of these parasites can also pose health risks to family members, especially young children, or anyone with a weakened immune system. Roundworms, in particular, can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated soil or faeces which can cause serious health issues, including affecting internal organs like the liver, lungs and heart.
The hidden threat of intestinal worms
The most common worms that infect dogs (and humans through their pets), are roundworms and hookworms and to a lesser extent, tapeworm. Fleas are the intermediate host for tapeworm, which means controlling flea infestations automatically controls tapeworms. Let’s take a look at the two most common worm infections, with the help from Zoetis:
Roundworms:
- Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs, particularly in puppies.
- They inhabit the intestinal tract and can also infect humans, usually through the ingestion of eggs from contaminated soil.
- In puppies, symptoms of roundworm infection include a pot-bellied appearance and gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive gas. Severe infestations can lead to intestinal obstruction.
- In adult dogs, symptoms are generally noticeable only if the dog has underlying health issues. Infected dogs may become malnourished and exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea, as well as coughing due to larvae migrating to the lungs.
Hookworms:
- Hookworms measure about 1.25 to 2.5 cms and attach to the lining of the small intestines, feeding on blood.
- The primary symptom of hookworm infection is gastrointestinal upset. Other symptoms include pale gums due to blood loss, weight loss, bloody diarrhoea, general weakness, a dry and dull coat, coughing, and skin issues.
- Infected puppies may fail to develop properly, and severe infections in young puppies can be fatal due to significant blood loss.
- Humans can become infected by ingesting larvae or by walking barefoot on contaminated soil.
Unfortunately, without regular deworming, the chances of family pets picking up a parasitic infestation are high, and with children playing in gardens barefoot and snuggling the family, the infestation can quickly spread. Best practice, depending on the dog’s risk, is to treat for the most common worms either every month or every second month.
One of our go-to monthly treatments is the chewable Simparica Trio all-in-one tablet that combats worms, ticks, fleas and mites.
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