wormers-direct.co.uk
Worms that effect Dogs
There are lots of different kinds of worms that can
infect your dog. These include: |
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Roundworms
These
are the most common worms and virtually all young puppies are
infected. Toxocara canis can be passed to puppies in the womb,
through the milk and from the environment. Infected puppies are
usually undersized, generally in poor health and may appear pot
bellied. Severe infection may result in death.
These worms are particularly important as they can be transmitted to
humans.
Tapeworms
Dipylidium caninum is the most common tapeworm and whilst a mild
infection is not a serious health concern, it can be uncomfortable
for your pet as live tapeworm segments are passed in the faeces. The
tapeworm attaches to the intestinal walls and feeds on the pet’s
blood resulting in anaemia in cases of severe infection. These
tapeworms can end up over a foot long in some cases.
D. caninum needs
the flea to complete its lifecycle and therefore fleas can be a
source of some tapeworm infections in dogs. To prevent this it is
important to maintain both flea and worm treatments for your dog.
Echinococcus multilocularis is a tapeworm found in the EU which can
infect people. Treatment for this is required under the Pet Travel
Scheme before re-entry to the UK.
Hookworms
Hookworms are uncommon in the UK where they are most often
associated with foot dermatitis in kennelled dogs. The more severe
disease in Europe may be due to the hookworm species Ancylostoma
caninum.
Whipworms
The Trichurus vulpis species of whipworm is also rare in the UK but
more common where there are large group of dogs kept together.
For more
information on the types of worms that also effect cats click here
If you are in any doubt about the health of your pets always consult
your veterinary surgeon
