A healthy adult dog infected with hookworms usually presents gastrointestinal problems. However, this infection can be fatal for puppies. Our veterinarians in Murfreesboro can tell you more about hookworms in dogs and how to treat and prevent them.
What are Hookworms?
Hookworms are parasites with hook-like mouths that embed themselves in the intestines of animals, usually cats and dogs. They are often found in warm, humid environments where pets can contract them if the area is poorly sanitized. They ingest surprisingly large quantities of blood once they attach themselves to your pet's intestine. Some hookworm infections can lead to anemia or inflammation of the intestine.
How do Dogs Get Hookworms?
Dogs can acquire hookworms through four distinct modes of transmission:
- Larvae can penetrate your dog's skin, leading to infection.
- A dog can easily ingest hookworm larvae when grooming their feet or by sniffing at contaminated feces or soil.
- Unborn puppies can contract hookworms via the mother's placenta in utero.
- Once born, puppies can contract hookworms through an infected mother's milk.
What is the Lifecycle of the Hookworm?
The lifecycle of hookworms consists of three stages.
- Eggs: When adult hookworms are inside a dog's intestinal tract, they lay eggs. These eggs are passed through the feces, hatch into larvae, and contaminate the environment.
- Larvae: Larvae can survive for weeks or even months in an external environment before infecting their next host.
- Adult: After entering the dog's body, the larvae move to the intestine, where they mature into adults, and the cycle begins again.
What are the Symptoms of Hookworms in Dogs?
The most common symptom of hookworms in dogs is intestinal or stomach upset. The other, more visible symptoms are as follows:
- Dry, dull coat
- Coughing
- Generalized weakness
- Pale gums
- Significant (unexplained) weight loss
- Failure of puppy to grow or develop properly
- Bloody diarrhea
- Skin irritations (especially around paws)
If you notice any of these signs in your puppy or adult dog, contact your vet right away. It's not uncommon for young puppies to die from severe hookworm infections, so immediate treatment is crucial.
How are Hookworms Diagnosed?
Veterinarians can diagnose hookworm infections in dogs through fecal tests. During your visit to the vet, you will be asked to provide a fresh stool sample from your dog.
The sample is mixed with a solution that causes any hookworms or hookworm eggs present in the stool to float to the top. It is important to note that this test is only accurate once the hookworms have matured enough to start producing eggs.
Unlike other parasites and worms, hookworms can remain attached to your dog's intestinal tract after defecation. As hookworms take around 2 to 3 weeks to reach maturity and start producing eggs, fecal float tests may not be accurate for young puppies.
How are Dog Hookworms Treated?
There is a type of medication known as anthelmintics, which can be used to get rid of hookworms. These medications are usually administered orally and have very few side effects. However, they are only effective in killing adult hookworms so that multiple treatments will be required, usually every 2 to 3 weeks.
In the event that your dog develops anemia due to a hookworm infection, a blood transfusion may be necessary to save their life.
Can Hookworms Infect Humans?
If a person lies down on a patch of land contaminated with hookworms, they may experience itching or irritation, known as "ground itch." In rare cases, hookworm larvae can enter and harm internal organs, including the eyes. To prevent hookworm infection, it is advisable to maintain good hygiene practices, including regular bathing.
How Can I Prevent My Dog From Attracting Hookworms?
There are a number of key approaches when it comes to preventing the spread of hookworms in dogs:
- Puppies should be dewormed at approximately 2-3 weeks of age, and if symptoms occur.
- Nursing female dogs should be dewormed when their puppies are also dewormed.
- Always clean up after your dog at the park or on walks, and keep your yard free of dog waste.
- Be sure to wash your hands frequently when around your dog, or after cleaning up dog waste. Also, ensure that your children wash their hands frequently.
- It's important to keep your dog on a regular parasite prevention regimen. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which products best suit your furry friend's needs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.