Parasite Protection for Dogs  

Fleas

Fleas are a very common external parasite. These insects feed on the blood of animals and can transmit several diseases, including tapeworms, cat scratch fever, and the plague. In addition to spreading disease, they can cause itching and allergic reactions in dogs. Keep in mind that a low number of fleas can cause significant reactions in dogs with flea allergies. You may notice the following signs if your dog has fleas:

• Scratching

• Excessive grooming or biting at the skin

• Flea dirt (flea waste) on the dog or dog bed

• Skin infections

• Fur loss, especially on the back near the tail

Adult fleas spend the majority of their lives on the pet, although recently-emerged adults can also be found on the floor and in the pets’ bedding. Fleas lay eggs that hatch into larvae. After a week or two, the larvae spin a cocoon and enter the pupal stage, which is very hardy and can last for up to several months. The pupae then develop into adults and the cycle repeats.

Ticks

Like most blood sucking parasites, ticks are capable of spreading diseases. Ticks are most commonly associated with the transmission of Lyme Disease, but some species can transmit anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and other tick-borne diseases.

Mites 

Ear mites live in dogs’ ear canals, and can lead to inflammation and secondary itching and infection, often resulting in copious dark, waxy debris in the ears. Infestation with skin mites such as Demodex canis and Sarcoptes scabiei, can lead to intense itching, crusting, hair loss, and secondary infection.

Heartworms 

Heartworms are spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. The adult worms live in in heart and surrounding blood vessels. They can cause damage to the vasculature, the heart, and the lungs. Annual testing and year-round heartworm prevention is recommended for all dogs no matter whether they are indoors or outdoors, and no matter where they live. Early signs of a heartworm infection can include:

• Reluctance to exercise

• Coughing

• Decreased appetite

• Weight loss

Serious signs that require immediate veterinary evaluation:

• Collapse

• Labored breathing

• Pale gums

There is effective treatment to kill adult heartworms, although it is expensive and is not without risk. The body’s reaction to both living and dying heartworms can have long-term consequences for the dog, so prevention is always preferred. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations closely including very restricted exercise during the treatment regimen.

Roundworms 

Roundworms are a gastrointestinal parasite of dogs that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss or failure to thrive in puppies. When there are many roundworms, dogs can even experience intestinal blockages. Regular fecal examinations are important to check for roundworm eggs. Signs of roundworm infection include:

• A pot-bellied appearance

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Long, round worms in the stool

Roundworms are a zoonotic parasite and can cause several health conditions in people. 

Hookworms 

Hookworms are a gastrointestinal parasite of dogs that attach to the intestinal walls and feed on a dog’s blood supply. Signs include:

• Diarrhea

• Pale gums

• Weakness

• Dark, tarry stools

A heavy burden of hookworms can lead to severe anemia, necessitating hospitalization and potential blood transfusions. Hookworms are a zoonotic parasite that can also cause multiple health conditions, and can be transmitted to humans through ingestion, or penetration of the skin via contaminated soil.

Whipworms

Whipworms are a gastrointestinal parasite of dogs with eggs that are very hardy in the environment. Dogs contract whipworms by consuming the eggs which can persist in the soil for many years. These small, whip-shaped worms live in the large intestine of dogs and can cause diarrhea with or without blood, weight loss, and anemia.

Tapeworms 

Tapeworms are a gastrointestinal parasite of dogs spread by fleas and other hosts. Adult tapeworms live in the intestines and attach to the intestinal wall. The most common sign of tapeworm infection is finding small, rice-like tapeworm segments around the tail or anal area, or in the stool. Tapeworms are another zoonotic parasite.