Description of Roundworms ( Ascarids )
It is not surprising that Roundworms are often referred to in two separate words as in Round Worms because the description of these parasites is that they look like worms which have round bodies. These types of worms are called Ascarids. Roundworms measure between 0.3 - 0.5 inches (7-12 cm) long and live in the dog's intestines and live off partially digested food. There are many different types of dog and puppy parasites and most puppies are born infested with 'worms' - their mother can carry roundworms and infect puppies before they are even born. The generic term "worms" is usually used to describe Roundworms - the most common of all the canine worms. Severe infection, if left untreated, can create intestinal obstruction and even cause death in puppies. Please note that Roundworm can be carried from dogs to people.
Internal Worms - live off the dogs
Worms, including the Roundworm are the common name for Canine parasites which exist internally and externally. As internal parasites they live off the puppy or dog robbing them of vital nutrients needed to stay healthy. Left untreated, intestinal parasites will stunt the growth and weaken young puppies.
Worms - invade the environment and infect other dogs
Worm eggs, or larvae, are shed into the environment via feces and can infect other dogs or humans.
The Spread of Round Worms to People
The Spread of Parasitic Worms, including the Roundworm, can be transferred from one animal to another and from animals to humans. The biggest risk is to our children who often do not pay care and attention to basic sanitary and cleansing requirements.
Transmission and Prevention of Worms, including Roundworm
The risk of transmission and the spread of worms, including Roundworm, can be minimised by:
Exercising sensible sanitary measures
Ensuring all excrement is removed from pet areas
Ensuring that hands are washed and clean after contact with the dog or puppy
Ensure that all produce grown in the garden is washed thoroughly
Ensure your dog is free of worms at regular intervals
Preventing or reducing the occurrence of dog and puppy worms by taking de-worming measures prevents the shedding of parasite eggs by your dog or puppy. These eggs contaminate the environment, and, as they can lay dormant for some considerable time, can later re-infect your dog or puppy.
Symptoms of Roundworms
The symptoms of Roundworms are as follows:
Anaemia
Dry hair
Poor weight-gain
Apathy
Diarrhoea
Bloated abdomen in puppys
Coughing
Puppy susceptibility to Roundworms - Treatment Schedule
Puppys are particularly susceptible to Roundworm and they may start passing roundworm eggs at the age of just 21 days when it is necessary to commence the first treatment. Pups can also be re-infected via their mother's milk. The mother and pup should therefore be treated until weaning has taken place. Medication to control the Roundworms can be prescribed by a Veterinary Surgeon or Canine Health Specialist at 6, 9, and 12 weeks of age. This will enable the Vet to detect any "Worms" and ensure that your pet is free of dog parasites. Medication should be prescribed to treat the Roundworms regardless of whether parasite eggs are detected in the stool of the puppy or bitch. This is because the eggs of the parasites may not have yet developed or are not numerous enough to be detected.
Different Types of Worms
There are several types of worm parasites which affect pets and are as follows:
Hookworms also referred to as Hook worms (Ancylostoma caninum)
Tapeworms also referred to as Tape worms (Dipylidium caninum)
Whipworms also referred to as Whip worms (Trichuris vulpis)
Heartworms ( also referred to as Heart worms which live inside the dog's heart )
About This Advice
We hope that this information about Canine Roundworm has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are in doubt about your Dog's Health you should consult your vet or other suitably qualified expert.
You can find details and contact information for any UK vet here
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