Tuesday, May 8, 2012

What to do About Intestinal Parasites in Dogs

By Mary Richards


Intestinal Parasites In Dogs

Dogs (and cats) often fall victim to various common intestinal parasites called worms. There are a large numbers of various kinds of intestinal worms, however dogs are commonly afflicted with tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These parasitic organisms reside in the digestive tract (most often in the intestines) exactly where they feed on nutrients, taking the dog of the nutrition it takes in. Worm infestations can cause a variety of unwanted symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight reduction, as well as a generally poor look.

How can Dogs Acquire Worms?

There are many of ways that the dog can end up with an infestation of any of these types of intestinal parasites. A pet infested with any of these types of worms may possibly pass the worms' eggs in its waste. This is usually a strong issue for getting your hands on after your dog as frequently as possible and not allowing your dog to consume feces (something dogs will do) whenever you can. Tapeworm eggs can be pass on by fleas. Fleas eat the eggs (quite a delicacy to a flea) after which pass them to a dog whenever biting it. A few roundworms will lie inactive in the body of a pregnant dog and activate prior to it gives birth. The activated worms make their way into the intestines of the unborn puppies where they are going to prosper right after the pups are given birth to.

Detecting Worms in Dogs

Worm infestations can be tough to detect. Even though some worms may be transferred in the feces, betraying their existence, it's uncommon. In case a canine is exhibiting indications that may indicate the presence of worms, a vet must be consulted. A stool sample is going to be evaluated with the existence of worm eggs (they are microscopic) as well as a medication called a "wormer" will be given. Stool samples are often gathered as part of a routine dog physical examination in order to check out the presence of worms. In the case of tapeworms, discarded tapeworm segments could be visible in the dog's feces or attached to the fur across the anus or beneath the tail. To the naked eye these might seem like small bits of white rice.

Dealing with Dogs for Worms

If a dog can be found to have an attack of worms, it needs to be recommended a wormer immediately by a veterinarian. According to the severity of the attack, the kind of worms, and also the probability of re-infestation, the procedure may need to be repeated one or several times. There are actually over-the-counter wormers offered, but most veterinarians don't suggest them because they are necessarily weaker and may not kill all kinds of worms as well as their eggs.

Intestinal worms can cause numerous health problems for dogs, up to and including death in extraordinary instances. Taking measures to prevent infestation, detect it as promptly as is possible, and treat it consequently will help keep your dog safe from these harmful parasites.




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