Now that the weather in Brisbane is heating up, you will often hear warnings for pet owners about an increase in tick and flea activity. However, there is also another parasite that becomes more prevalent with warmer temperatures – intestinal worms.
Intestinal worms are often a forgotten issue, but they can have serious health consequences for your dog if left untreated. They can even cause health risks to people if transmitted from their pets.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the different types of intestinal worms in dogs, how they spread, symptoms to look out for and treatment options.
What are intestinal worms?
Intestinal worms are parasites that live in your dog’s digestive system. The most common types found in Brisbane include:
- Roundworms
- Threadworms
- Hookworms
- Tapeworms
- Whipworms
How do you know if your dog has worms?
When a dog infected with intestinal parasites defecates, it sheds the eggs of these worms in its faeces. However, it is unlikely that you will be able to see these eggs yourself, as they are typically too small to be seen by the naked eye.
There are some symptoms to look out for that may indicate that your dog may have worms, however, they can vary depending on the type and severity of the infestation.
- Weight loss
- Itchy bottom
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Enlarged belly
- Coughing
If your dog is displaying any of the above symptoms, it’s important that you get them checked out by your vet. They will be able to run a series of tests, including laboratory testing of your dog’s faeces to detect any signs of worm eggs, or other health issues.
How do dogs get worms?
The main way dogs become infected with worms is by sniffing or licking soil, grass or faeces infested with worm eggs, through fleas or by coming into contact with other infected animals
Dog parks are one of the most common places where dogs get infected with intestinal worms. A study by the University of Melbourne and Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health found that over 66% of all dog parks in Brisbane were contaminated with canine intestinal worms.
Treatment options
If your dog has been diagnosed with intestinal worms, your vet will advise the best treatment based on the type of worms they have. Dogs are typically treated with deworming medications, firstly to kill the adult parasites, and then repeated a few weeks later to catch newly hatched worms.
Preventing worm infestations
With Brisbane’s warm climate an ideal breeding ground for intestinal worms, using a worming preventative is the best way to protect your dog. Prevention is the best option when it comes to worms.
There is a wide range of very effective dog worming tablets and dewormers readily available. Combined flea and worm treatments are a popular option, along with treatments that provide protection against both intestinal worms and heartworm. If you are unsure which product is best for your dog, we can assist with recommending the most appropriate treatment option.
People can also become infected by certain types of worms, including roundworms and hookworms, if they handle contaminated soil or faeces and don’t wash their hands properly afterwards. Pet owners should also ensure good hand hygiene practices after disposing of dog faeces or visiting a dog park to minimise the risk of transmission of worms.
Need some advice?
If you have any questions about the best way to prevent worms or any other aspect of your dog’s health, we are here to help. You can call our Loganholme vet clinic on 07 3801 1744 or book an appointment online.