Some worms that infect dogs are visible to the naked eye.
Five types of worms infect dogs. Hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and whipworms are all intestinal parasites, while heartworms affect the heart. Some, but not all, are visible to the naked eye; others require a veterinary exam.
Instructions
1. Roundworms, the most common of the worms, look like spaghetti noodles and can be up to 6 inches long. You're most likely to see them in your dog's vomit or feces. Other symptoms, especially when the infection gets worse, may include a swollen belly, a dull coat and weight loss.
2. Tapeworms are also common, particularly because they are transmitted by infected fleas. Their white, rice-like segments will show up--still moving--around your dog's anus, on its fur and in areas where he spends time. With an advanced case, your dog may display agitation, weight loss, vomiting, itching around the anus and abdominal pain.
3. Hookworms can't be seen by the naked eye and require a stool sample, which is checked under a microscope by a veterinarian. Hookworms cause intestinal bleeding, which can lead to bloody stool, pale gums, fatigue and anemia. As with other worm infections, animals may experience weight loss and diarrhea.
4. Whipworms are invisible to the naked eye. They anchor themselves to the intestinal wall and feed off the tissue there. Signs include bloody diarrhea, flatulence, weight loss, anemia and fatigue.
5. Heartworms are invisible and cause no symptoms until the infection is far enough along to cause lasting damage to a dog's heart. In the late stages, signs include a dull coat, swollen belly, weakness and coughing.
Tips Warnings
The damage caused by worm infections (except heartworm) is largely reversible with treatment. Wormers are available over the counter or by prescription, depending on the type of worm.
Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate scheduling of initial tests and ongoing prevention, which will vary with your pet's age and amount of exposure risk.
Tags: worms, weight loss, dull coat, infect dogs, swollen belly, visible naked, worm infections
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