How to Spot Worms in Dogs

How to Spot Worms in Dogs

How to Spot Worms in Dogs

Worms in dogs is a common canine problem, though it is fortunately preventable. There are five common types of worms in dogs, which are:

Whipworm

Tapeworm

Roundworm

Hookworm

Heartworm

All, if left untreated, can be potentially fatal for your pet, but fortunately most owners are able to spot the signs of their dog having dog worms. Here are some of the most telltale signs that you should be on the look out for:

Worms in the dog's stool

Pot-belly appearance

Appetite loss and weight loss

A dull coat

Diminished energy level

Coughing

Diarrhea

Vomiting

These symptoms can also be a sign for any other number of dog diseases, so it is important to make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible so that the illness can be properly diagnosed.

What should I Do if I Suspect my Dog has Worms?

It is important that, if you think that your dog has worms, that you take a stool sample along with you to the vet. Not all worms in dogs are visible to the naked eye (such as whipworm or heartworm) so your vet will be able to examine the stool for any presence of worms.

How are Worms in Dogs Treated?

To help restore your dogs health, a de-worming medication will be administered to your dog orally, or it may be given by injection.

TIP: You can usually buy de-worming medications through online pet "pharmacies" and save money.

Some types of worms may be recurrent, such as hookworms or even heart worms. In these situations, there may be a follow-up fecal examination to ensure that the worms have not returned and that there is no presence of worm eggs. For more serious cases, intravenous therapy may be required, as well as a blood transfusion.

How to Prevent Worms in Dogs

The easiest way to prevent worms in dogs is to pick up after your dog when he relieves himself. This preventative measure helps stop the growth of worms in both your dog and in other dogs in the neighborhood. Regular stool testing when you go for your annual vet check up is a good idea, and it is important to provide your dog with the appropriate medications to prevent worms (such as using flea pills and heartworm prevention medications). Keep the dog's bedding and living quarters clean, and prevent your dog from coming in contact with any stray animals that may be in the area.

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