Prevention of Internal Parasites

Several types of intestinal parasites may infect dogs. The most common are roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and whipworm. Dogs are also susceptible to infection with two common protozoan parasites, coccidia and giardia. Puppies with mild infections may not show any clinical signs, but can develop a pot-bellied appearance, diarrhea, and vomiting. Severe infections can cause serious illness and can be life threatening if left untreated.

Check Regularly for Intestinal Parasites

Because most intestinal parasites are not easy to see and infection may cause only mild disease, it is important to submit a fecal sample from your dog to your veterinarian once or twice a year for screening. If your dog does contract intestinal parasites, they can be easily eliminated through medication.

Protecting Your Dog from Heartworm

Canine heartworm disease is caused by a large white worm called Dirofilaria immitis, and is transmitted to dogs through mosquito bites. When a dog is infected, adult worms mature and live in the dog’s heart and adjacent blood vessels. Their presence interferes with normal blood circulation and heart function and can cause serious illness. The good news is that heartworm infection is effectively prevented through regular testing and the use of topical or oral medications.

Puppies should be started on heartworm preventative treatment by six to eight weeks of age and all dogs should receive preventive medication throughout mosquito season in their region. In warm areas of the country, year-round treatment is recommended. And, there is an added benefit to using preventive heartworm medications - many heartworm preventatives also protect your dog against the most common intestinal parasites!

Did You Know

Fleas can transmit tapeworm to your dog. Tapeworm is transmitted to dogs via an intermediate host such as insects or small animals. Fleas, lice, crickets and many rodents are all intermediate hosts for certain species of tapeworms. Therefore, if at any time your dog contracts fleas, ingests insects, or hunts and consumes prey animals, he is at risk for tapeworm infection.