Worms in Dogs: Protect the Whole Family
Writing by Admin on Friday, 3 of September , 2010 at 3:40 am
Worms in dogs are a frequent problem for UK pets and their owners. They can cause distressing, ill-health to our dogs and may come back at any time, even after treatment. Across the entire world there are many types of parasites which are grouped under the term ‘worms in dogs’ but in the UK we deal primarily with just two. They are the roundworm and the tapeworm.
Roundworms are problematic because they are passed from one animal to another and many puppies are even born carrying them. Roundworms resemble short lengths of spaghetti. Mature worms live in the dog’s intestines and feed on the contents. What this means is that your dog’s partially digested food is shared with worms. Depending on the severity of the infestation, dozens of worms could be present at any one time. Of course, it is logical that under nourishment will be a consequence of a dog having to share its food. Severe infestations can lead to loss of energy and a dull coat. Diarrhoea and vomiting might also be caused. In puppies, roundworms may cause a distended abdomen and delayed growth. Untreated roundworm infestations could actually kill a puppy by blocking their intestines. However, do remember that worms in dogs do not always cause the appearance of symptoms. Regularly treating dogs for worms is therefore very important.
In adult dogs, some worm larvae can migrate around the body, settling in muscles and forming cysts. In this form, even worming treatment cannot remove the larvae. The larvae remain inactive in the body of the adult dog and are only reactivated in a time of stress. They normally become active during pregnancy and infest unborn puppies by migrating to the womb. This is why it is important to worm all puppies.
Not only are dogs affected, but worms in dogs can cause problems for people too. Because they are more likely to come into contact with soil or sand that has been contaminated with worm eggs whilst playing, children are especially at risk. The worm larvae can migrate though the human body and can lead to permanent damage to the eye sight if they settle at the back of the retina. Treating worms in dogs on a regular basis is therefore the only way to protect the whole family.
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Category: Pets
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