Depending on the type of parasite, it can cause malnutrition in the animal and infect humans.
Worms in dogs are very common in pets. Because they are in contact with the ground and explore the world with their sense of smell and taste, dogs end up contracting worms at least once in their lives.
Worm prevention is an easy, low-cost method. However, if vermi fugation is not done frequently, pets will be more susceptible to developing diseases that are not always easy to treat.
Learn more about what causes worms in dogs, what the symptoms are and how to treat them.
What is Canine Worm
Verminosis is a disease caused by the presence of parasites in the pet’s organism. In most cases, the worms are lodged in the intestine and the main vehicle for infestation is the mouth.
In more serious cases, parasites can lodge in the stomach, lungs, kidneys, esophagus and even the heart. In these cases, the consequences are very dangerous and can compromise the organs, leading the animal to death.
Each type of worm has its own life cycle and reproduction. In addition, the symptoms caused also depend on the type of parasite, the compromised organ and the time the animal has been infected.
How does worm infestation occur in dogs?
The form of infestation depends on the characteristics of each worm. As we have already said, the oral route is the most common means. In this case, the dog ingests eggs or larvae of parasites, which may be in the water, soil or the environment itself.
Worms can also enter the dog’s body through the skin. In this way, they penetrate into the deepest layers. It is important for you to know that this contamination can occur even if your friend does not have any wounds.
Another common form of infestation is through the intermediate host. In this case, the dog ingests a flea that is infected by a worm and this develops in its body. Eating infected raw meat is another example of this type of contamination.
Acquiring worms through pregnancy is also possible. In this way, the infected mother transmits the disease to the puppies when they are still in the womb.
In many cases, the pregnant dog is nutrient deficient because she does not have access to adequate food for that period. With that, immunity tends to lower and that’s why we find worms in puppies more easily.
Signs that your pet may have worms
The most common symptoms of worms in dogs are:
- Hair that is dull and dry to the touch;
- Diarrhea and stools with mucus or the presence of blood;
- Vomiting without apparent cause;
- Weight loss, even if the pet is eating normally;
- Abdominal swelling;
- Anal itching, identified when they try to bite the anus or when they drag it on the ground;
- Apathy and weakness.
Depending on the length of stay, the level of infestation and the type of parasite, dogs can show more serious symptoms, such as respiratory problems and neurological disorders.
Be sure to bear in mind that the diagnosis of worms can only be confirmed by the doctor, in a veterinary clinic after the results of laboratory tests.
Vermifuge for dogs eliminates parasites
The vermifuge is the main medicine designed to eliminate existing worms and to prevent the emergence of a new cycle of infestation. Depending on the case, it may be necessary to administer other medications or vitamin supplements.
It is not so simple to break the infestation cycle because the worms can survive for long periods in the environment. For this reason, dogs must undergo deworming since they are puppies.
This medication must be administered throughout the animal’s life. To find out which product is ideal, talk to your veterinarian. The professional will be able to identify the type of worm and prescribe the ideal treatment.
How to prevent these worms
Hygiene, along with deworming for dogs , is able to promote barriers against the emergence of parasites. Collect your friend’s feces daily, wash the environment with soap and water and wash your hands thoroughly after the procedure.
Prevent your friend from doing his business in closed, humid places where the sun does not shine. Humidity and low light are factors that provide the survival of larvae.
Now you know what worms are and how to treat them, be sure to make an appointment with specialists in parasite control, treatment and prevention.