Roundworm is the common name for the ascarid that affects dogs, Toxocara canis. This parasite is extremely common in puppies, and treatment is relatively straightforward. As with other parasites, if we understand their life cycle, we can better treat and prevent their transmission.
Do dogs always have roundworms?
Almost all dogs have roundworms at some point in their lives—most often in puppyhood. There are two main species of roundworms affecting dogs: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonine. Toxocara canis causes more serious disease and can be transmitted to humans.
Is it rare to get roundworms?
Roundworm infection is the most common type of worm infection in the world. It is rare in the U.S. Roundworm eggs live in soil that is contaminated by feces.
What percentage of puppies have roundworms?
According to the Companion Animal Parasite Council, a survey conducted in 1996 using samples collected from across the United States found that more than 30% of dogs younger than 6 months of age were shedding roundworm eggs and other studies have shown that virtually all pups are born infected.
How common are roundworms?
How common are roundworms? Hundreds of millions of people around the world are infected with roundworms at any given time. But many of these parasites are uncommon in the United States. Americans may come into contact with them when traveling to certain countries.
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