As a responsible pet owner, knowing when your dog might have worms is essential to their overall health. Worms are common in dogs and can cause various health problems if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs your dog has worms, how dogs can get infected, and why it’s important to seek help if you notice these symptoms. If you have any concerns or think your dog may have worms, please contact Lake City Animal Hospital at (386) 755-0236 for more information or to make an appointment.
Common Signs of Worms in Dogs
Worms can affect dogs in several ways, and the symptoms they show may vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infection. Some dogs may show clear signs, while others might not display any symptoms at all until the infestation is more advanced. Keeping an eye on your dog’s behavior and physical appearance is the best way to catch the signs early.
Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite
One of the most noticeable signs your dog has worms is unexplained weight loss, especially if their appetite hasn’t changed. In some cases, dogs may lose interest in food altogether, leading to weight loss over time. Worms feed on the nutrients in your dog’s body, leaving less for them to absorb. This lack of nutrition can lead to a drop in weight, energy levels, and overall health. If your dog is losing weight and you’re not sure why, it’s a good idea to have them checked for worms.
Vomiting or Diarrhea
Worms can irritate your dog’s digestive system, causing vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, you might even see worms in your dog’s vomit or stool. This is a strong sign that your dog is dealing with a worm infestation and should be treated as soon as possible. Diarrhea caused by worms can sometimes be bloody or contain mucus, which can worsen dehydration and other health issues.
Coughing
Coughing isn’t always linked to worms, but certain types, like heartworms and lungworms, can affect your dog’s respiratory system. A persistent cough, especially one that doesn’t seem to improve, could be a sign that worms have reached your dog’s lungs or heart. Heartworms, in particular, are a serious concern as they can cause life-threatening conditions if not treated.
Scooting and Itching
Dogs scooting their rear ends across the ground may seem like a funny behavior, but it can be a sign of worms. Tapeworms, for example, can cause irritation around a dog’s anus, leading to itching and scooting. This irritation may also cause your dog to bite or lick their rear excessively. If you notice your dog scooting frequently, it’s worth having them checked for worms.
Bloated Abdomen
A bloated or swollen abdomen can be a sign of worms, particularly in puppies. This bloating occurs because worms take up space in the intestines, leading to discomfort and swelling. If your puppy has a round belly and seems uncomfortable or sluggish, it’s important to get them evaluated by a vet as soon as possible. Worms can be especially harmful to young dogs because their bodies aren’t as strong and can’t handle the strain worms cause.
Lethargy and Low Energy
Worms can take a toll on your dog’s energy levels. If your dog seems unusually tired or sluggish, they could be battling an internal parasite. The lack of nutrients and the toll the worms take on the body can leave your dog feeling fatigued. You may notice that they no longer enjoy activities they once loved, like playing or going for walks.
How Do Dogs Get Worms?
Understanding how dogs get worms can help you prevent future infections. Dogs can contract worms in several ways, and it’s important to be aware of the risks in your environment.
Ingesting Worm Eggs or Larvae
One of the most common ways dogs get worms is by ingesting worm eggs or larvae from contaminated soil, water, or feces. Dogs often sniff or lick things while they’re outside, and this behavior can easily expose them to worms. Once the eggs or larvae are ingested, they hatch and grow inside your dog’s intestines.
Fleas
Fleas can also transmit worms to dogs, especially tapeworms. If your dog swallows a flea that’s infected with tapeworm larvae, the worms can grow inside their intestines. Fleas are a common problem, particularly in warmer months, so keeping your dog protected from both fleas and worms is important.
Eating Raw or Undercooked Meat
Raw or undercooked meat can contain worm larvae, which can infect your dog if they eat it. This is one reason why feeding your dog a well-balanced, cooked diet is important. Dogs that scavenge or hunt small animals are also at risk, as they may consume infected animals.
Mother to Puppy Transmission
Puppies can get worms from their mothers, either through the placenta before birth or through nursing. This is why puppies are often dewormed early on, as they can be more vulnerable to the effects of worms. If you’ve recently adopted a puppy, talk to your vet about getting them checked and dewormed as part of their routine care.
Types of Worms That Affect Dogs
Different types of worms can infect dogs, and each has its own set of symptoms and treatments. It’s helpful to know which worms your dog might encounter.
Roundworms
Roundworms are one of the most common types of worms in dogs. They live in the intestines and can grow several inches long. Dogs with roundworms may experience weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to roundworms, so they should be dewormed early in life.
Hookworms
Hookworms are small, but they can cause significant damage by attaching to the walls of your dog’s intestines and feeding on their blood. This can lead to anemia, which can be dangerous if left untreated. Symptoms of hookworms include weight loss, diarrhea, and pale gums due to blood loss.
Tapeworms
Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that can grow inside your dog’s intestines. One common sign of tapeworms is finding small, rice-like segments around your dog’s anus or in their stool. These segments contain tapeworm eggs and can be spread to other animals.
Whipworms
Whipworms are another intestinal parasite that can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and general discomfort. These worms live in the large intestine and are harder to detect than other types of worms, making routine check-ups important.
Heartworms
Heartworms are one of the most serious types of worms, as they live in a dog’s heart and lungs. These worms are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause life-threatening damage if not treated. Symptoms of heartworms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. Heartworm prevention is essential because treating heartworms can be more challenging.
Preventing Worms in Dogs
While worms are common, there are steps you can take to help prevent them from infecting your dog. Regular vet visits and preventative medications can go a long way in keeping your dog worm-free. Your vet can recommend the best worm prevention plan based on your dog’s lifestyle and the risks in your area.
Make sure to keep your dog’s living area clean, avoid areas with heavy flea or mosquito activity, and practice good hygiene when handling your dog’s waste. Also, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, check for signs of worms regularly and take preventative measures to keep them safe.
Contact Lake City Animal Hospital for More Information
If you notice any signs your dog has worms or are concerned about your dog’s health, please reach out to us at Lake City Animal Hospital. We’re here to help keep your dog happy and healthy. Call us at (386) 755-0236 to schedule an appointment or for more information on preventing and treating worms in dogs.
We’re ready to answer any questions you may have and provide the care your dog needs.