Unpleasant though it may be, worms are very common in dogs and, as a pet owner, it’s important to understand the signs of a worm infestation in your dog, how to treat it and what to expect out of the deworming process.
How Do Dogs Get Worms?
Intestinal parasites are very common in dogs and can be transmitted in a number of ways. Dogs of any age can become infected with worms by the environment (in soil, water or anything contaminated with feces), pregnant females can pass worms to their unborn puppies (these worms may be dormant in the bodies of even the healthiest, well cared-for dogs and during pregnancy but will reawaken and travel to the developing pups), and puppies can also become infected while nursing from their mothers, making it very important to deworm puppies frequently.
What Are Signs of Worms in Dogs?
The four most common intestinal worms in dogs are roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms. The eggs of these worms are shed in feces, but the only eggs visible to the naked eye are tapeworm eggs, which look like short grain white rice. Examination of the fecal contents under a microscope is required to detect other eggs.
The most common sign of intestinal parasites is diarrhea, and some dogs with worms may also vomit. Puppies and kittens with worms may also have a potbellied appearance.
In addition to the four common worms, there are two additional, common non-worm parasites. Coccidia and giardia are single-celled protozoa (parasites) that also cause diarrhea and may be treated with broad-spectrum dewormers.
How to Treat Worms in Dogs
Luckily, dewormers are very effective against intestinal parasites. While several types of dewormer may be purchased over the counter, they should still be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. This is important to be sure it is dosed correctly and to make sure that the dewormer you select is effective against the type of worm your dog has.
After giving your dog a dewormer, you may notice worms in his or her feces, which is completely normal. Be sure to clean up all infected feces immediately and wash your hands well. Your dog may strain or seem uncomfortable while passing worms. If these symptoms are more than mild or are persistent, consult your veterinarian.
Puppies require frequent deworming with appropriate deworming medication. If you are caring for a small puppy, dewormers for puppies are commonly given every two to four weeks beginning while they are still nursing, but your veterinarian will help you determine the best schedule for your situation.
Preventing Worms in Your Pet
Annual fecal testing of adult dogs for intestinal parasites is an important part of their healthcare, and even seemingly healthy dogs may have worms. Your veterinarian should require an annual fecal test which will screen for worms.
If your dog attends daycare, training classes or goes to a boarding facility, it is important to prevent the spread of infection by giving your dog a monthly dewormer. Heartworm prevention given monthly is usually effective against intestinal parasites but may not prevent every infection.
It is very important to note that intestinal worms are transmissible to humans. Consult your physician or pediatrician if you or your children have any signs of GI upset after a diagnosis of worms in your dog.