Finding worms in your pet’s poop is alarming. Although you may want to run screaming, take a closer look. Sometimes you can identify roundworms and tapeworms in fresh feces, and a few eagle-eyed owners occasionally can spot whipworms and hookworms.
Roundworms are spaghetti-like parasites that live in dogs’ intestines and interfere with nutrient absorption. Tapeworms also inhabit your pet’s bowels, and signs of infection are unmistakable: tiny worm segments that look like bits of white rice wriggling in your pet’s feces, near his anus, or on his fur or bedding. Hookworms and whipworms rarely see the light of day, because they attach so firmly to the intestinal wall.
Internal parasites can inflict great damage, and not just to your dog. Your four-legged friend can transmit some parasitic infections to you and your family.
Causes
Dogs can contract worms from several sources. Pregnant dogs pass roundworms to their offspring, and nursing mothers pass roundworms and hookworms through their milk.
Because animals can pass whipworm, roundworm, tapeworm, and hookworm eggs in their feces, curious dogs can encounter these repugnant parasites in infected soil or other contaminated environments. Dogs who dine on infected rodents can develop tapeworm and roundworm infections, and pets also may contract tapeworms when they gobble up an infected flea while grooming.
What you can do at home
Scoop the poop from the yard or kennel to avoid environmental contamination. And check your dog’s feces regularly for diarrhea, bloody stools, or the actual presence of worms—a nasty but important task.
Monitor your dog for other signs of infection, including a dull coat, weight loss, and lethargy. Puppies with intestinal worms also may develop a potbelly.
Because many wild animals carry parasites, don’t let your pet pal hang around with—or prey on—other animals.
Most puppies suffer from intestinal parasite infections and need a deworming several times as youngsters. As soon as your puppy is old enough, start him on monthly intestinal parasite, heartworm, and flea control products. Prevention is easy and affordable, and it may head off serious health problems.
When to call the veterinarian
Some parasites can cause blood loss, malnutrition, or worse. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if you suspect infection or if you see any worms, and take along a fecal sample if possible. Your dog needs immediate care if he exhibits other symptoms, such as diarrhea, dehydration, or weight loss.
What your veterinarian will do
The doctor usually can diagnose the problem after talking with you and examining your dog’s feces under a microscope. Dogs showing other symptoms also may need blood tests to uncover such problems as anemia from a severe hookworm infection.
Depending on the type of infection, the veterinarian may give your pet an injection, oral liquid or pills, monthly tablets, chewable treats, or a topical medication. If your dog isn’t receiving a flea preventive, your veterinarian will recommend a product that best suits your pet’s needs.
Don’t try to diagnose your pet’s parasite infection or rely on over-the-counter deworming products to cure your dog. These aren’t as safe and effective as prescription medications.
And remember: Your dog can pass certain dangerous parasites to you and your family, so take this problem seriously.
