Your dog can get worms from a few different sources. The most common is from contact with an infected animal or the faeces of an infected animal; whether it be another pet in your household, the neighbour's cat, or a dog at the park. Nursing puppies often contract worms through their mother's milk, if she's infected.
Worms are common and easy to pick up - on the plus side, they're easy to avoid if you keep your buddy's prevention up to date all year round.
Types of worms in Dogs
Dogs are prone to intestinal worms, including:
-
Hookworms
There are a number of ways dogs can become infested with hookworm, including coming into contact with larvae infested soil, or ingesting the larvae in food or water. -
Tapeworms
Usually transmitted by fleas. Segments of tapeworm, similar-looking to grains of rice, may be noticed in your pup's faeces or around their bottom. In some instances, your dog may vomit up segments of tapeworm. -
Roundworm
Infection can occur by ingesting infected faces. Infected dogs can even transmit it to their pups via the mammary glands during feeding.
How do I tell if my dog has worms?
Common symptoms of worms include:
- Scooting (otherwise known as when your dog drags their bum along the ground)
- Change in appetite
- Dull coat
- Round, bloated belly
You might even see worms in your buddy's faeces.
How do I treat dog worms?
Keep your buddy's belly worm free by administering worm treatment every three months for life.
'All wormers', available in either a paste or a tablet, will protect your dog from all types of intestinal worms including roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and whipworm; some of which can transfer from dogs to humans (just in case you were second guessing whether it was worth it!).
Tip
Try and get all of the pets in your household on the same worming schedule. It will help avoid an infestation and be easier to remember!
In addition to protecting your dog against worms, ongoing health care should including vaccinating your dog and keep their flea treatment up to date.
