Roundworms are extremely common parasites in dogs. 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.
How common are roundworms in dogs?
Roundworm is a common parasite in dogs and puppies. It is so common that nearly every dog will deal with this parasite at some point in his life, particularly while he is a puppy. Puppies are especially vulnerable to roundworm because their immune system has not matured enough yet to fight them off.
How did my dog get roundworms?
How did my dog get roundworms? Infected dogs shed the microscopic roundworm eggs in their feces. Other dogs may become infected by sniffing or licking infected feces. Roundworm eggs can also be spread by other animals such as rodents, earthworms, cockroaches, and birds.
Is it easy to get rid of roundworms in dogs?
Roundworm Treatment Many deworming drugs are safe and effective. They include fenbendazole, milbemycin, moxidectin, piperazine, and pyrantel. Your vet will give your dog one to three doses at first, which will kill the adult worms.
How long can a dog live with roundworms?
There are basically 4 species of roundworms that can affect dogs and/or cats: Toxocara canis, Toxocara leonine, Toxocara cati, and Baylisascaris procyonis (raccoon roundworm). Roundworms live an average of 4 months and have a life cycle ranging from as early as 14 days to as long as 80 days depending on the species.
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