Dogs can be infected with internal parasites, including various types of worms, at any point in their lives. Once the parasites make their way into the dog's gastrointestinal tract, they can cause problems. Deworming dogs is a crucial aspect of preventative measures as well as treatment if your dog already has parasites.
Transmission of Worms in Dogs
Puppies can be born with worms, which could be dormant in the mother's system. As hormones are released during pregnancy, it is possible for worms to be transferred to the puppies. Additionally, dogs are ideal carriers of parasites since they are often in places where parasites thrive. Dogs also tend to investigate with their noses where other animals have defecated. Thus, if other animals have parasites, dogs can be infected that way as well.
Treatment for Parasites in Dogs
Routine testing and treatment is necessary for the prevention and treatment of parasites. This medication helps eliminate any current parasites and prevents dogs from getting parasites in the future. Deworming puppies usually begins when they are very young, even before going home with a new owner. The veterinarian recommends a deworming treatment plan for dogs of any age.
Types of Worms in Dogs
There are several different worm species that can affect dogs. The worms that commonly affect dogs are roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, which veterinarians call "long worms," as well as tapeworms and heartworms.
Long Worms in Dogs
If your dog passes long worms in their poop, they can look like a piece of white thread or a skinny spaghetti noodle. Dogs may not always shed these worms in their stool. If your dog is symptomatic, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and weight loss. Hookworms and whipworms can suck blood, leading to anemia.
Tapeworms in Dogs
Dogs may swallow external parasites like fleas carrying tapeworm eggs. Tapeworms can then be passed from the parasite to the dog. These worms can be found in feces or around the dog's rectum and can look like a little kernel of rice in a dog's poop. Tapeworms can cause discomfort and an itchy rectal area.
Heartworm in Dogs
Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitos and reside in the heart and blood vessels. Signs that your dog may have heartworm include coughing, weakened pulse, and exercise intolerance. Unlike the diagnosis of other worms, the diagnosis of heartworms requires a blood test.
Worm Burden
Another concern is the "worm burden," or how many worms are present in a dog's GI tract. Puppies that are not dewormed routinely can develop dull coats and experience stunted growth. With excessive worm burden, dogs can get sick and die.
What to Do if You Think Your Dog Has Worms
If your dog has soft poop, diarrhea, or the poop's appearance changes, make an appointment with your vet. Bring in a fecal sample to check for evidence of parasites. Additionally, it is recommended to have your dog's stool checked when you take them for their annual physical examination.
Collecting a Fecal Sample from Your Dog
The night before your vet visit, your vet will ask you to collect a fresh stool sample. Use a plastic spoon and a plastic bag to collect the sample, and make sure it is less than 12 hours old. Store it in the refrigerator until your vet visit.
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