Health

Worm infestation is very common in dogs and  can cause distress and ill health. The 2 types of worms that trouble our pets are roundworms  and tapeworms.

Roundworms

Roundworms are spread from animal to animal and are very similar looking to earthworms but much thinner. They can vary from ½" to several inches in length.

The adult worms live in the dog's intestines, feeding on the contents - in effect, stealing your dog's food!  With large infestations the dog may be undernourished, with a dull coat, and lacking energy.  Other symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting and weight loss. Heavy roundworm infections may cause a distended stomach and 'pot-bellied' appearance - particularly noticeable in puppies. As the larvae migrate through the puppy, pneumonia and coughing may be seen.

Roundworms may lay dormant for years, only to be activated in times of stress. The commonest situation that results in their awakening is pregnancy, when large numbers of worm larvae migrate into the puppy in the uterus (womb), infecting it before it is even born. Roundworms are usually vomited up or passed through in the motion.

Roundworms can be passed on to humans if the eggs are accidentally ingested. Often this is from the fingers or from plates that pets have licked or from the soil. Care must be particularly advised when there are young children in the environment.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms, unlike roundworms, need an intermediate host (e.g. flea or mouse) that is eaten by the dog. Tapeworms resemble long, flat ribbons, divided up into segments. Their head attaches itself to the intestine, feeding on the animal's blood. Mature segments break away and can be seen in the motions or around the base of the tail.

A heavy infestation can cause anaemia (low red blood cells), lethargy, loss of appetite and a dull lifeless coat. Unlike roundworms, tapeworms are generally a problem of adult animals.

Treatment

Both types of worms are, unfortunately, impossible to prevent. There is no preventative treatment that will stop your dog becoming infected. However, there are thankfully a number of very effective products that will kill them. It is necessary to use a worming treatment regularly - every 3 months is recommended for adults.