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Internal Parasites in Dogs

The most common internal parasites of dogs are:

Coccidia - Giardia - Hookworms - Roundworms - Tapeworms - Whipworms

Coccidia are small protozoans that multiply in the intestinal tracts of most commonly puppies and kittens less than six months of age. Although many cases are mild, it is not uncommon to see severe, bloody diarrhea result in dehydration and even death. Fortunately, coccidiosis is treatable with drugs your Vet will have handy.

Giardia are protozoa that live in the small intestine of dogs and cats. In the rare cases in which disease occurs, younger animals are usually affected, and the usual sign is diarrhea. Usually the infected animals will not lose their appetite, but they may lose weight. The feces are often abnormal, being pale, having a bad odor, and appearing greasy. In the intestine, Giardia prevents proper absorption of nutrients, damages the delicate intestinal lining, and interferes with digestion. There are several treatments for giardiasis at your Vet’s office.

Hookworms have either teeth-like structures or cutting plates with which they attach themselves to the wall of the intestine and feed on the animal's blood. Hookworms can cause a skin disease in humans called cutaneous larval migrans. Hookworms, especially A. Caninum can cause severe disease. By feeding on the oxygen-carrying blood of the host, hookworms can rapidly cause anemia. The mucous membranes e.G., gums will appear pale, the animal will become weak, and sometimes black, tarry stools can be seen. Growth in young animals is stunted, and the hair coat may appear dull and dry. Animals may become emaciated and eventually die from the infection. Most of the wormers that kill roundworms will also kill hookworms. Common wormers and their effectiveness against hookworms work as well.

Roundworms, are the most common parasite of the digestive tract in dogs and cats. Animals with more severe infestations may be thin, have dull hair coats, and develop a pot-bellied appearance. Some may become anemic and have vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. There are many wormers that kill roundworms. Most wormers, however, kill the adult worms but do not affect the migrating or encysted larvae.

Tapeworms are flat worms that are segmented. The head usually has suckers or muscular grooves that enable the tapeworm to attach itself to the animal's intestine. In heavy infections, we may notice abdominal discomfort or nervousness in the animal. The animal may vomit and sometimes have convulsions. It is thought that the convulsions are due to toxins produced by the tapeworm. The active segments around the anal area may cause an animal to lick or 'scoot' on the floor. There are several treatments for giardiasis at your Vet’s office.

Whipworms are common in dogs and found throughout the United States. Whipworms get their name from the whip-like shape of the adult worms. Whipworms live in the large intestine and cecum. The signs of infection vary with the number of worms in the intestine. Small numbers of worms cause no signs, but larger numbers can result in inflammation of the intestinal wall. Large amounts of mucous are produced by the inflamed intestine. Sometimes hemorrhage into the intestine occurs, and anemia can result. Animals may have diarrhea and loss of weight. Common wormers and their effectiveness against whipworms will work well.

This entry was written by Joeanne Garvin, she regularly contributes to Pet Haven . Joeanne is building up herself up as a online specialist on home information packs.