One of the unavoidable downsides of owning a dog is the risk of intestinal worm infection. Unfortunately, because symptoms aren’t always present, intestinal worms are often missed and misdiagnosed. Your dog may become gravely ill if not treated, and you may catch it. Here’s some crucial background about canine parasites: intestinal worms.
How do dogs and puppies become infected with intestinal worms?
Even the healthiest of dogs are susceptible to worm infestation through several different routes. You should be aware of the following vectors to get more information about pest infestation in your pet:
From their mother.
Roundworms and hookworms can infect an unborn puppy or a nursing puppy through the uterine wall. It is essential to consult your veterinarian before worming your puppy, as this is a typical route of infection for roundworms.
Consumption of contaminated soil.
Dogs can contract roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm from polluted soil because these parasites dwell in the digestive tract and excrete their eggs in the feces. There is generally no evidence of excrement contamination because it can take up to a month for the larvae to become active, and the eggs can pose a concern for years. Most canine infections are contracted when dogs groom themselves and eat the resulting contaminated dirt. So, dog owners must always pick up after their pets.
Walking through the contaminated ground.
Only hookworms can be acquired in this way. Any part of the dog’s body, including the paws and belly that comes into touch with infected soil, can get affected. Visit sites like www.GreeleyPetVet.com to learn more on other treatments.
Ingestion of infected animals.
Consuming an infected animal, like a mouse, which can pick up worms like dogs, is one way to get roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Dogs can get it by eating the carcasses of domestic animals that have died, including sheep. As a result, feeding your dog raw meat is risky for the same reasons. As far as we know, tapeworms are the only intestinal parasite spread by infected fleas. The only way for a dog to get tapeworms is if it eats a flea that has them.
How to treat intestinal worms in dogs?
In most cases, worms in dogs can be cured with early detection, prevention, and treatment. The parasite and the severity of the infection will determine which deworming medicine and dosage instructions your veterinarian gives you.
If your dog has worms, it’s best to talk to your vet before giving him or her any kind of medication, whether it’s over-the-counter or prescribed. Only your veterinarian or vet dentist can determine the extent of the infestation and then provide the right number of treatments.
Conclusion
To treat your dog for worms effectively, you should know about the various types of intestinal parasites and the signs that your dog may be infected. Depending on your dog’s needs, your doctor may advise you to replace routine fecal testing with frequent deworming treatments.
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