Worms in Dogs: Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

In this blog, we will explain a crucial but often underestimated topic: worms in dogs. These intestinal parasites can cause a number of health problems, from gastrointestinal upset to serious complications if not treated properly. We will discover what worms are, how they affect our four-legged friends and most importantly, how to prevent and treat these infestations to keep our furry friends happy and healthy. Let's get started!

Types of worms in dogs

Hook worms

They are intestinal worms that attach to the wall of the small intestine and feed on the dog's blood, which can cause anemia and other health problems if the infestation is severe.

Whipworms

They are found in the dog's large intestine and can cause diarrhea, weight loss, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Roundworms

These roundworms are common in puppies and can cause digestive problems, intestinal blockages, and other health problems if the infestation is severe.

Heartworms

They are transmitted through mosquito bites and can lodge in the dog's blood vessels and heart, causing heart disease and, in severe cases, death.

Cestodes

These flatworms are commonly found in the dog's small intestine and are transmitted through ingestion of infected fleas, rodents, or other animals. They can cause digestive problems and other symptoms.

Lungworms

These infect the dog's lungs and airways and can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory problems.

It is important to take your dog to the vet regularly for worm testing and follow a preventive deworming program as recommended by your vet to keep your dog healthy and free of parasites.

In case the dog does not like to visit the veterinarian, I recommend that you give him Waggy's brand puppy treats. because they contain CBD for dogs , which helps a lot to level stress and anxiety levels in dogs before going to your session, which will be beneficial for everyone. In addition, one of its other ingredients is Omega 3 for dogs , a necessary and essential component for the development of the puppy.

Symptoms of worms in dogs

Symptoms of worms in dogs can vary depending on the type of parasite and the severity of the infestation. Therefore, you must observe if your pet has any of the following symptoms that indicate the presence of worms in dogs:

Diarrhea

Diarrhea can vary in consistency and frequency depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation.

Vomiting

Dogs infested with worms may vomit, especially if the infestation is severe.

Weightloss

The worms consume the dog's nutrients, which can lead to unexplained weight loss despite a normal or even increased appetite.

Increase or decrease in appetite

Some dogs may show an increased appetite due to loss of nutrients, while others may lose interest in food.

Dull coat or poor body condition

Poor nutrition caused by worm infestation can affect the dog's overall health, including the appearance of its coat and body condition.

Abdomen enlargement

In puppies infested with roundworms, an enlarged abdomen may occur due to the presence of worms in the intestine.

Anemia

Some worms, such as hookworms, feed on the dog's blood, which can cause anemia if the infestation is severe.

Weakness and lethargy

Worm infestation can cause dogs to feel weak and tired due to nutrient loss and anemia.

Treatment for worms in dogs

Treatment for worms in dogs depends on the type of parasite and the severity of the infestation. Here are some common treatment options:

Antiparasitic medications

Antiparasitic medications prescribed by a veterinarian are the primary treatment for most worm infestations in dogs. These may be in the form of tablets, liquids, injections or topical formulations, depending on the type of worm and the veterinarian's preference.

Preventive deworming

After initial treatment, it is important to follow a regular preventative deworming program as recommended by your veterinarian to prevent future infestations. This may include the use of monthly or quarterly deworming medications.

Additional treatment as needed

In severe cases of worm infestation, especially in puppies or dogs with underlying health problems, additional treatment may be necessary to address associated complications, such as anemia or dehydration.

Medicines for worms in dogs

Waggy's emphasizes that administering worm medications to dogs should be supervised by a veterinarian, as the type of worm and the dog's overall health will determine the appropriate treatment. Some of the common medications used to treat different types of worms in dogs include:

Benzimidazoles

This group of drugs includes substances such as fenbendazole, albendazole and mebendazole. They are effective against a variety of worms, including nematodes and cestodes.

Ivermectin

It is effective against several types of worms, including nematodes and mites. However, it is important to note that not all dogs can tolerate ivermectin, especially certain breeds such as Collies and other related breeds due to their genetic sensitivity to this substance.

Milbemycin

It is effective against some nematodes and is also used in combined products that treat internal and external parasites.

Praziquantel

It is specifically effective against cestodes, such as tapeworms.

Pirantel

It is effective against nematodes, such as roundworms and hookworms.

Home remedies for worms in dogs

Here are some home remedies that could help control worms in dogs, but it is important to remember that they should be administered in follow-up to their medical treatment and always consulting with a veterinarian before using it:

• Raw pumpkin, especially the seeds, are believed to have natural antiparasitic properties. A small amount of raw pumpkin (without seeds) can be added to the dog's diet.
• Pumpkin seeds can be crushed and mixed with the dog's food. These seeds are believed to have antiparasitic properties that can help expel intestinal worms.
• Raw carrots can help remove worms from your dog's digestive system by acting as a natural scraper.
• Apple cider vinegar has traditionally been used as a natural treatment for parasites. A small amount can be added to the dog's drinking water. However, the effectiveness of this method is not scientifically proven.

Can worms in dogs be prevented?

Yes, worms in dogs can be prevented through several measures:

Regular deworming

Schedule regular deworming following your veterinarian's recommendations. This may include the use of antiparasitic medications administered in the form of tablets, pills, or topical treatments, depending on the type of worms being prevented.

Flea and tick prevention

Fleas and ticks on dogs can be vectors for some types of worms thanks to flea bites , so be sure to use appropriate flea and tick control products on your dog.

Rodent and insect control

Keep rodent and insect populations in your environment under control, as they can carry worms and other parasites that can infect your dog.

Healthy diet

Feed your dog a best dog food that is balanced and nutritious that strengthens his immune system. A healthy dog ​​will be less susceptible to worm infestations. You could try the barf diet

Conclusion

In conclusion, prevention and proper treatment of worms in dogs are essential to maintain the health and well-being of our pets. Regular deworming, monitoring the environment and proper feeding are key measures to prevent worm infestation. Additionally, early detection and treatment under the supervision of a veterinarian are essential to ensure a long and healthy life for our canine companions.