Five Familiar Dogworms--Which Do You Want to Overcome?

There are 5 different varieties of dogworms your k9 can get: heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. As a dog owner, you should educated yourself so that you can recognize the symptoms--early.

Early detection is vital because each type of dogworm will call for a different form of prescription. Sometimes the signs of a dogworm infestation can be hard to recognize. Other times the signs (like diarrhea, weight loss, or vomiting) are a lot simpler to recognize. With that in mind, it's a good idea to have your dog examined regularly.

Important Note: Some varieties of dogworms can be transmitted to humans. To promote good hygiene, it is vital for pet owners to wash their hands and clothes regularly after playing outside with their dog-especially before mealtimes.

Five Familiar Dogworms -Which Do You Want to Overcome?

>> Hookworms

There are two varieties of hookworms: Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala. Hookworms are a tiny, thin worm that latches itself on to the intestinal walls of its prey while sucking their blood. They are hard to detect and unseeable to the human eye.

These worms may also be passed on to puppies while in their mother's uterus or through her breast milk. That said, puppies of all ages can get hookworms, making regular veterinary visits all the more vital.

And…like roundworms, hookworms can also be passed on to humans.

Early Detection: All though hookworms cannot be seen by the naked eye, there are a few indicatory symptoms you should be on the lookout for: bloody stool, anemia, weight loss, pale gums, diarrhea and low energy levels.

Prevention & Treatment: Treatment usually consists of oral medications (dewormers), fecal tests and intravenous therapy. In some advanced situations, a blood transfusion can be required.

Because some puppies die before the hookworm is ever detected, it is vital to schedule periodic tests with your vet.

>> Tapeworms

The Tapeworm is an additional dog worm that can infect your dog's intestines. Dog's get them by consuming infected fleas.

Early Detection: Tapeworms get their name from their long, flat, tape-like outline. They are distinguishable to the naked eye, and can be found in the infected dog's fecal matter, around his anus or in his bed.

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, nervousness, severe itching around the anus, vomiting and weight loss.

Note: Dogs cannot pass on tapeworms directly to humans.

Prevention & Treatment: Run-of-the-mill over-the-counter deworming medications will not wipe out tapeworms in dogs. You'll need something prescription strength, which will in turn be given to your dog orally or by injection. Talk this over your vet for more advice.

NOTE: You will need a veterinarian's prescription to buy deworming products.