Worms in Dogs
Worms are not uncommon among dogs. They can get them through the eggs of other infected animals, including birds, rabbits, and rodents. But dogs don’t develop adult worms from eating the eggs. If your dog is roaming freely, it’s possible that your dog can get infected with these parasites by eating the eggs of other animals. As a result, you need to be vigilant about your pet’s activities and surroundings.
Fleas
Fleas and ticks are carriers of various diseases that are passed on to humans and dogs. Infected dogs and cats can develop intestinal parasites and may have several different symptoms. These parasites can lay up to 100,000 eggs per day, which are transferred through the feces of infected animals. Some of these eggs can remain infectious for years, so the best way to prevent infection in your pet is to control the flea population.
Contaminated soil
Dogs can become infected with worms from contaminated soil. Infecting soil is common for a variety of reasons, including contact with dogs who have eaten other animals. In addition to soil, contaminated pet waste can be contaminated, exposing a dog to worm eggs and larvae. Infected dogs and cats may also develop external or internal signs of the disease, such as itching, pain, or an increase in bowel movements.
Infected wild animals
Wrong kind of worm can infect your pet. While you may not be aware of this, a common worm found in dogs is the whipworm. This worm is whip-shaped and lives in the intestinal wall. Its eggs remain active in the environment for up to five years. If you see your dog’s anus or tail covered in worm segments, it is likely that your pet has whipworm.
Ingestion of worm larvae
Many worms that live in dogs are also harmful to humans. Hookworms, for instance, can cause a skin disease, and their larvae can migrate into deeper tissues. Roundworms, on the other hand, can be picked up by touching the dog’s fecal matter. Children are especially at risk of picking up worm larvae. Ingestion of worm larvae may lead to fatal results for your dog.
Ingestion of worms while grooming
Ingestion of a tapeworm from the pet’s feces is the most common way for dogs to contract a gastrointestinal ailment. The tapeworm attaches itself to the intestinal lining and grows into an adult. Once it reaches 11 inches in length, it spits out segments of feces that appear like rice grains. Some pets may not even exhibit symptoms, although they may scratch their anus or scoot across the floor.
Transmission of worms to humans
The prevalence of pets is a significant factor in the spread of worms, including toxocariasis. The larvae, or eggs, of toxocara canis enter the body through the feces of a dog. These worms can encyst in the human liver and intestines, and can even migrate into the eye. Because of this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend deworming dogs at least once per month.
