Intestinal parasites are a common problem for young animals. All dogs are susceptible to parasites in their intestines; however, some breeds are more likely to get them than others. The risk factors for intestinal parasites in dogs infection include the dog’s way of life and the owner’s frequency or inability when administering preventive medications.

What Are Pet Intestinal Parasites?

It is essential in preventative veterinary medicine to eliminate intestinal parasites and keep them under control. Infections caused by parasites in pets could cause digestive and other health problems if left untreated. Please learn about common intestinal parasites and how to protect your pet.

1. Roundworm

Roundworms are often seen as intestinal parasites that can be found in pets. They are strands of spaghetti that look yellowish. The eggs of the worms are discarded in an infected pet’s waste and ingested by another pet. After the eggs hatch, worms move around the intestines. Babies are more likely to contract roundworms because their mother’s parasites could be present before birth.

Puppy illnesses can cause stomach distress and bloating. A puppy that has several roundworms might grow slowly. On the other hand, there is a chance that dogs will not show any signs at all.

Proper hygiene and grooming can also help avoid worms. You can avail of dog bathing services for professional maintenance.

2. Whipworm

Whipworms are among the tiniest intestinal parasites. Sniffing or licking dirt, including whipworms or their eggs, can trigger an infection in a dog. Dogs may also ingest them by ingesting contaminated soil, food, water, and waste or animals.

After ingestion, whipworms establish their homes in the dog’s intestine, where they lay eggs excreted by dogs’ feces. The symptoms of an infection can be apparent should they be mild. However, whipworms can irritate and irritate the colon of dogs suffering from the disease.

For early diagnosis of severe and fatal illnesses, you can contact a reputable facility like Mono Way Veterinary Hospital expert in veterinary internal medicine.

3. Tapeworm

The name “tapeworm” is derived from its characteristic shape: a long, thin strip. Rodents, fleas, and even birds can spread tapeworms since they carry parasites’ eggs. Dogs do not get tapeworms from other pets. They usually acquire parasites from fleas.

Tapeworm infections in dogs’ adulthood are less severe and cause fewer symptoms than in puppies. The growth of small intestinal obstruction and digestive discomfort could occur in puppies. As with many intestinal parasites, there are times when there are no symptoms.

4. Hookworm

The shape of hookworms is similar to that of a common ground worm. However, hookworms are smaller and are whiter or yellower in color. Dogs can eat the dirt in which the larvae of hookworms live by licking their feet or eating the soil. Dogs can also ingest hookworm eggs when they get in contact with the feces of an infected dog and then consume them. Hookworms can also infect dogs through subcutaneous burrowing in their skin.

Hookworms, if ingested, go to the small intestines, where they become attached to the lining. They feed on the blood of the canine. Anemia is the most common symptom of hookworm infestation because hookworms deplete blood hosts.

To detect worms in an early stage, you can type in “puppy vet near me” for proper and professional veterinary care for your pet.

5. Non-Worm Parasites

Coccidia is one type of microorganism found in a dog’s intestines. Coccidiosis causes dehydration, stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Coccidia diseases are most prevalent among puppies, who usually receive them from their mothers.

Giardia is another intestinal protozoa similar to Coccidia. Dogs with Giardia infection have a poor coat, dehydration, weight loss and failure to gain weight, diarrhea, and vomiting. Giardia is found in the garbage that travels through the intestinal tract. Spirochetes are non-worm parasites that infiltrate dogs’ digestive tract and bloodstream. Spirochete infections can trigger severe diseases like Lyme Leptospirosis, leptospirosis, and syphilis.

Conclusion

Puppies are most vulnerable to the negative impacts of intestinal worms. Hookworms can cause anemia. Roundworms may cause delayed growth. Parasites of the intestines rarely cause fatal illness in healthy adult pets. However, they can be prevalent when older or sick. That’s why ensuring your pet’s vaccination is completed early to create a strong health foundation is imperative.