Tapeworm Infection in Dogs – Tapeworms are a widespread issue for dog owners, but with the right knowledge about this parasitic infection, you can take the right measures to keep your pet healthy. This guide outlines everything related to Tapeworm Infection in Dogs, including the signs, treatments, and more!
What are Tapeworms?
Scientific name, Dipylidium caninum, tapeworms in dogs are separated, intestinal parasites that can range in size from 4-28 in length, flat, white worms. These hook-like mouthparts attach to the lining of the small intestine of the dog, and once attached to the intestines, they start to feed off nutrients the dog has consumed, preventing the dog from getting necessary nutrition.
Over time, the parasitic infection can lead to the infected animal having nutritional deficiencies or losses in weight loss, and various other complications could arise if the infection is not treated. They also reproduce by leaving segments behind (called proglottids) through defecation, and appear as small segments or grains of rice that are seen moving in and out of the feces.
What is the process by which dogs contract tapeworms?
Dogs mainly get tapeworms after ingesting a host animal, usually a flea, that is carrying tapeworm eggs. Fleas can serve as carriers of tapeworms by picking up eggs of the parasite as larvae via eating infected host debris or feces. Dogs may ingest fleas when they are cleaning themselves or chewing on bite-itch areas while being bitten by fleas. Once the eggs are orally introduced (swallowed), they hatch inside the dog’s intestines, where the newly hatched larvae attach to the intestinal lumen walls within the intestines and become mature adult tapeworms. Adult tapeworms can grow several feet in length and absorb the nutrients from a dog’s diet. In addition to ingesting infected fleas, dogs can carry tapeworms by consuming infested rodents or rabbits, which is less common but may occur in dogs that hunt or scavenge regularly. Now that you have an understanding of how dogs could carry tapeworms, you can better understand how to prevent tapeworm infections.
Symptoms Of Tapeworm Infection in Dogs
Recognizing the typical signs of tapeworm infection in dogs can allow for prompt evaluation and treatment. Here are some of the most prominent indications that your dog may have a tapeworm infection –
Segments of tapeworms in your dog’s feces – These typically resemble small white rice-like pieces in the feces or stuck to the fur in the dog’s bottom area. Newly passed segments may look like they are moving, but they dry very quickly and resemble sesame seeds and become very hard to observe.
Scooting, itching, and irritation – Dogs frequently can be uncomfortable around their rear due to the tapeworm segments exiting their body. Therefore, they typically either actively scoot their bottoms across the ground or drag their bottom across the ground to relieve the irritation.
Changes in appetite and weight – It is also typical for dogs to lose weight even when they have appetite because tapeworms are competing for nutrition in the intestinal tract, which hinders appropriate nutrient absorption.
Vomiting – In certain cases, a dog may vomit a whole tapeworm when it has detached itself from the intestinal walls. In this situation, once an owner witnesses this happening, it is considered a definitive sign that their dog has a tapeworm infection, and it becomes imperative to seek veterinary attention.
What are the treatments for Tapeworm Infection in Dogs?
The treatment of tapeworm infestations in dogs is incredibly simple and highly efficient. The best way to treat a dog with tapeworms depends on recommendations by your veterinarian. Here is how treatment for tapeworm infection in dogs is possible.
Anthelmintics – The most common therapy for tapeworm infection is an oral anthelmintic. Tablets containing praziquantel are given to dissolve the tapeworms in your dog’s intestines. These medications target the parasites without harming your pet.
Injection – If oral, a veterinarian feels that an injectable medication might be more effective, or depending on the condition of the pet, the veterinarian may administer an injection. The injection allows the medication to enter the bloodstream quickly, killing the parasites fast.
Monitoring After Treatment – After the first appointment, a veterinary follow-up may be required to make sure that all of the tapeworms have been eliminated. This might include a fecal exam to determine if the treatment worked.
Environmental Management – In addition to treating the tapeworms with medication, environmental management is very important. This includes washing all bedding, vacuuming any areas in the home your pet occupies regularly, and treating all household pets for fleas to prevent re-infestations.
Preventing Tapeworm Infection in Dogs
The single best means to prevent tapeworm infection in dogs is to manage flea control and removal. Here is a step-by-step procedure to help you to keep your pet tapeworm-free.
Follow Regular Flea Treatment – Apply flea prevention every month or as often as directed by your veterinarian and veterinary technician. Flea treatments are useful to maintain flea populations in check as well as eliminating fleas already present.
Maintain Your Dog’s Environment – Regularly clean the sleeping and feeding areas of your dog by washing bedding in hot water.
Schedule Regular Veterinary Visits – Schedule regular veterinary visits to evaluate your pet’s health. This allows your veterinarian to detect flea trouble as soon as possible to avoid tapeworm infection.
Teach Good Hygiene – Teach all household members good hygiene, particularly after contact with pets. Simple actions such as hand-washing can go a long way in preventing tapeworm transmission.
Conclusion
You want to act quickly if you suspect your dog has tapeworms. Early detection means treatment will prevent further spread and inflammation, and enable your dog to enjoy a healthy, happy life. Head into your nearest clinic for advice and treatment of tapeworms and many common issues.
FAQs
How long do tapeworms take to grow in dogs?
The tapeworms grow after about six weeks.
What will happen if tapeworms go untreated in dogs?
Tapeworms in dogs can cause severe health issues, like anemia, weight loss, and intestinal blockages, if left untreated.
How to tell if tapeworm medication is working in dogs?
The dogs expel their worms in dog poop. Do not worry if you see the worms moving. As long as they are outside the dog’s body, it means the deworming was a success.
