Common Dog Parasites: A Comprehensive Guide
Our Furry Friends at Risk: Parasite Infections in Dogs
1. Roundworms: These parasites are often transmitted vertically from the mother to the puppy, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating. They are like rubber bands in color, typically a pale beige, and prefer to inhabit the dog's intestines, sapping the nutrients from the digestion process.
2. Hookworms: These are thin, yellow nematodes. When cats are infected, they may suffer from weight loss, hair loss, and a dull coat, along with loss of appetite, drowsiness, vomiting, and sometimes bloody stools with a foul odor. If a large number of larvae enter the body through the skin, it can cause itching and inflammation in the dog's skin.
3. Heartworms: These are thin, white, threadlike parasites. In the early stages, dogs may exhibit coughing, but later on, symptoms can include liver enlargement, ascites, and difficulty breathing, ultimately leading to fatal consequences.
4. Tapeworms: These are pale red with a yellow tinge, also known as Dipylidium caninum. They reside in the dog's intestines and can cause serious issues like intestinal blockage and anemia. Severe tapeworm infections may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, chronic enteritis, and weight loss. Mild infections often go unnoticed by pet owners, but they can be spotted by examining the dog's feces or around the anus for segments of the worm.
5. Scabies Mites: Scabies is a highly contagious skin disease caused by mites. The ear mite is the primary culprit, but other species like the sarcoptic mange mite and the autumnal mange mite also contribute. Transmission occurs through direct contact, so dogs can catch scabies by interacting with infected pets or sharing personal items like brushes and towels.
6. Fleas: Fleas are bloodsucking parasites that swell with blood after feeding. Also known as ticks, they range in size from 1mm to 1cm. Dogs can become infected with fleas during any outdoor activity, and these pests can be found lurking in carpets, corners, furniture, and curtains in the home. Dogs can pick up fleas by simply coming into contact with these areas.
