When hookworms infect a healthy adult dog, it can lead to stomach problems. But for puppies, these tiny parasites can be deadly. Our vets in Hoquiam share facts about hookworms in dogs and how they can be treated and prevented.
What are hookworms?
Hookworms are parasites with hook-like mouths that embed themselves in the intestines of animals, commonly cats and dogs. They are often found in moist, warm environments, especially if the area is not kept clean and sanitary. Once attached to your pet's intestines, hookworms consume a significant amount of blood, and in some cases, can cause anemia or inflammation in the intestine.
How do dogs get hookworms?
Dogs can get hookworms in four different ways:
- 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 hookworm lifecycle has three stages.
- Eggs: Adult hookworms lay eggs while inside the intestinal tract of the dog. These eggs are then passed through the feces, where they 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: Once the larvae make their way into the dog's body, they migrate to the intestine, where they mature into adults and begin the cycle once again.
What are the symptoms of hookworms in dogs?
The primary signs of hookworms in dogs are tummy troubles. Some other noticeable symptoms are:
- Dry, dull coat
- Coughing
- Generalized weakness
- Pale gums
- Significant (unexplained) weight loss
- Failure of the 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 use fecal tests to find hookworms in dogs. Your vet will ask you to bring a fresh stool sample for your dog. As it is nearly impossible to see hookworms in dog poop with the naked eye, the sample will be mixed with a solution, and if there are hookworms or hookworm eggs present, they will float to the top of the solution.
However, this test works well only when the worms are grown enough to lay eggs, and the eggs are what come out in the feces. The hookworms themselves stay latched on to your pet's intestines inside.
As it takes two to three weeks for hookworms to reach maturity and begin producing eggs, fecal float tests may not be accurate in young puppies.
How are dog hookworms treated?
Anthelmintics are special drugs that can get rid of hookworms. They're usually taken by mouth, and don't often cause problems.
However, they can only kill adult hookworms, so your dog will need treatment every two to three weeks as the eggs hatch.
If your dog gets anemia from hookworms, they may also need a blood transfusion.
Can hookworms infect humans?
If a human lies on a ground contaminated with hookworms, they may develop a condition called "ground itch", which is basically itchy or irritated skin. In some rare instances, hookworm larvae can penetrate and damage internal organs, including the eyes. Consistent bathing and hygiene habits may help prevent hookworm infection in humans.
How can I prevent my dog from contracting hookworms?
There are several important ways to stop hookworms from spreading in dogs:
- Puppies should be dewormed at approximately two to three 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.
- Keep your dog up-to-date on their parasite prevention. Many products formulated to prevent hookworm will also help to prevent hookworm. Speak to your vet to learn more about the right parasite prevention for your canine companion.
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.