This entry was posted on 2014-07-01 by Schalk.

Internal worm infestations in dogs include tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms and whipworms.

Symptoms and Types

Signs that your dog may have worms include diarrhoea (may be bloody), weight loss, change in appetite, scooting on their bottom and possibly an overall poor appearance.

Causes

Whipworm: Trichuris trichiura is the parasite that is generally transmitted by ingesting infested matter (soil, food, water, faeces containing whipworm eggs).

Hookworm: Hookworms can be fatal especially in puppies. These parasites invade the small intestine and create bite sites which lead to bleeding and ultimately anaemia. Puppies usually acquire this condition through the milk from their mother. Contamination may also occur through larval penetration of the skin, generally found in contaminated water or in a contaminated environment.

Roundworm: An intestinal parasite Ascaris lumbricoides causes this infestation. Roundworms are often quite large, up to 10-12cm in length. They can lead to abdominal swelling, gastrointestinal issues and possibly intestinal rupture. Infection occurs through the ingestion of roundworm eggs which are found in infected food, water or faeces. Puppies are also able to become infected during pregnancy or by drinking infected milk.

Tapeworm: Medically referred to as cestodiasis, they typically settle in the small intestine. Dried, white to cream coloured segments of tapeworm may be seen in your dog’s faeces or in the fur under the tail. Tapeworm infection occurs through the ingestion of contaminated material (rabbits, birds and rodents) including through the ingestion of adult fleas which contain the tapeworm eggs.

Treatment

Treatment of worms in dogs usually involves the use of oral medications to destroy both the worms and the larvae. If you suspect your dog of having worm infestation, veterinarian advice should be sought.

Prevention

Prevention of worms involves sanitising your dog’s area and avoiding closed or crowded quarters with other animals. Preventing flea infestation will also aid in preventing tapeworm infection.

Living and Management

Follow up examination is usually required to confirm that all the eggs have been eradicated.