Parasites can be common (but important) causes of gastrointestinal-related problems in our canine companions. While fleas and ticks are easy for pet parents to spot and identify, intestinal parasites can be present inside your BFF (best furry friend) without you realizing it.
How serious is parasites in dogs?
Are these infections serious in the dog? Intestinal worms can be a serious problem in young puppies. Hookworms can cause anemia and roundworms can lead to poor growth and development. In adult dogs, however, intestinal parasites are only occasionally life-threatening.
What happens if my dog has a parasite?
Symptoms can include mild diarrhea and a change in appetite. Often times, there can be no symptoms at all, though you may see some segments of the worm by your dog's anus or in their feces.
What percentage of dogs have parasites?
Surprisingly, almost 36 percent of all dogs, and 52 percent of dogs sampled from southeastern states, harbored at least one major intestinal worm parasite. The numbers of dogs harboring combinations of parasites also surprised us. Those that were concomitantly infected with A. caninum and T.
How does a dog get a parasite?
Dogs can contract intestinal parasites via different routes. Parasites are usually transmitted when an animal inadvertently ingests parasite eggs or spores in contaminated soil, water, feces or food. In the case of tapeworms, they can also be transmitted when a dog eats an infected flea.
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