Are Tapeworms in Dogs Contagious

Infection due to tapeworms is commonly found in pets. Although it is not severe or life-threatening, it can cause a lot of discomfort to the pet. There are certain diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. They are known as zoonotic diseases; and tapeworm infection is one of this type of diseases.

Tapeworms in Dogs
These parasites that are found in the small intestine of pets like dogs and cats. Dipylidium Caninum is the most common tapeworm found in dogs. They have flat bodies, a hook like mouth, and can grow up to 20 cm in length. Tapeworm infestation in pets can be caused most commonly through fleas. Fleas eat fecal matter containing eggs of tapeworms. These eggs hatch in the stomach of fleas and turn into cysticercoids. Later, when dogs come in contact with the fleas, they swallow them when they chew or bite their skin. In this way, the fleas pass into the stomach of the dog. The fleas are broken down in the dog's intestine and the cysticercoids develop into adult tapeworms. The worms then attach themselves to the inner lining of the dog's intestine and feed on the nutrients in the stomach. The tail of the adult tapeworm, containing eggs, falls off and passes through the feces of the dog. These eggs come in contact with the fleas and the cycle continues.

Tapeworms do not cause any severe disease, but, they are bad for the overall dog's health. When the dog is infected with tapeworms, it shows symptoms like loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting and lack of energy. One may notice the dried sections of worms around the dog's anus. Sometimes, even mobile tapeworms in dog's stool are found. Eggs of these worms are most commonly found in carpets and dog's bedding.

Are Tapeworms in Pets Contagious to Humans?
The answer to the above question is positive, but, it is not very common for human beings to become infected with tapeworms from dogs. However, toddlers and children are more susceptible to getting infected with worms as they have a weak immune system. Children are also not aware of the importance of maintaining hygiene, and hence can catch worms from their pets. People can get tapeworms from their pets only if the fleas get into the stomach of human beings through some food. This is very rare, but it is a possibility, and hence should not be ignored. One should also remember that getting bitten by fleas does not cause tapeworms in humans.

Treatment of Tapeworms in Dogs
The worm infection can be treated easily with drugs. These tablets do not cause any side effects and can be easily obtained from the vet. One should remember that as tapeworms spread through fleas, and hence, prevention of flea infestation should be carried out as soon as possible. There are several flea prevention techniques available that help in making your house free of fleas.

There are certain types of tapeworms that are contagious to humans and other pets. Therefore, it is essential to undertake certain preventive measures in order to avoid tapeworms. Firstly, if there are children at home, they should be taught the importance of maintaining hygiene. They should also be encouraged to wash their hands before having meals and also after handling the pets. Similarly, the dog house and bedding should be kept clean. Regular grooming of the dog should also be done to avoid flea bites on dogs.

Lastly, remember, it is better to prevent tapeworms in dogs rather than looking for the treatment later.