How to Tell If a Dog Has Worms
People who have owned dogs for a while get used to seeing the most common signs of an infection with worms such as the swollen belly (especially in puppies) and the appearance of the worms themselves. But recognizing worms can be tougher if you are not as experienced or if the signs are more subtle. Here are some clues that your pet might be under attack.
Instructions
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Vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss are some of the more common signs of worm infection, but can also be indications of other ailments. If you see these signs, schedule an exam, including a stool check, with your veterinarian.
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Other symptoms of worms may include a dulling of your dog’s coat, loss of appetite and low energy level. In the case of advanced-stage heartworm infestation, your pet may lose the ability to tolerate exercise.
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Be suspicious of coughing and hiccoughing. These can also reveal the presence of worms.
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Two of the most common varieties of worms, roundworms and tapeworms, are visible to the naked eye. Roundworms are spaghetti-like, and make their appearance in vomit and stool. Tapeworms become plainly visible and look like moving rice grains in the feces, around your pet’s anus or on the nearby fur.
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Hookworm and whipworm must be detected under a microscope from a stool sample, usually in your veterinarian’s office. Heartworm requires a blood test.
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Tips & Warnings
There are a variety of recommended testing and prevention regimes for all parasitic worms. Talk to your veterinarian about the best one for you.
Puppies are the most vulnerable to worm infection, so begin testing and prevention before symptoms appear.
If left untreated, heartworm can be fatal to dogs, but prevention is affordable and widely available. Talk to your veterinarian about your best option.
Humans can contract roundworm and hookworm, usually from contaminated soils. Take care to wear shoes and wash your hands thoroughly after contacting potentially infected areas or an infected pet.
