How to get Rid of Roundworms in Dogs

Definition of roundworms:

Roundworms are worms having round bodies, hence they are called roundworms. They measure around 7-12 cm long and live in the intestines of dogs. As hookworms live by hooking onto dogs’ intestines, roundworms live by feeding on partly digested food.

Roundworms are usually diagnosed through microscopic examinations of canine feces. But also, mature roundworms can be found in the dog’s fecal matter and in his vomit.

Causes of roundworms:

Roundworms can be easily caught by dogs. Here are some ways that a dog would get infected by roundworms:

  • Transmission of mother’s infection to unborn puppy

Pregnant dogs that were infected by roundworms in the present or in the past will transmit their infection to their yet to be born puppies. Beware with negative test results. Larvae of roundworms are in the dog’s muscle tissue and may not be detected by tests.

  • Transmission of infection from an infected mother to nursing puppies

Immature worms or larvae might spread all throughout the body of a pregnant dog and it might be present in the mammary glands. If this happens, a nursing puppy would directly consume roundworm larvae.

  • Swallowing roundworms

Larvae mature inside the intestines of dogs. As they begin massive reproduction, their new eggs will exit together with the dog’s feces. These stools will then become threats to other dogs. This is how easily roundworms get transmitted to other dogs and this is why roundworms’ cycle cannot end.

Symptoms of roundworm infection

Symptoms of roundworm infection can be similar to symptoms of other worm infection. To confirm your dog’s case, have him checked by a vet as soon as you notice sudden changes in his habit, routine and appearance. Symptoms of roundworm infection can include:

  • Physically, if your dog’s coat becomes dull, he might have gotten infected by roundworms. Pale mouth, lips, and gums can also be associated with roundworm infection. Unhealthy looking skin with reddish and dry texture can also be explained by roundworm infection.
  • Sudden change in routine like appetite loss can also be due to roundworm infection. When your dog begins having some eating disorders, roundworms might have infected your pet. These eating disorders might include eating dirt and garbage that can lead to a visible weight loss. As roundworms infect your dog’s system, your pet’s urine’s appearance might go from normal to a bright colored look. Also, when your dog becomes lifeless and weak, you can associate this with the infection.
  • Visible evidences of canine roundworms are through the dog’s feces. Infected dogs can experience producing bloody stools.

Treating roundworms

Treating roundworms must go together with keeping your surroundings clean. Since roundworms are easily caught, you just can’t rely on dewormers alone. You also have to do your part in preventing re-infection. Here are some tips in treating and getting rid of roundworms:

  • Canine dewormers

Many canine dewormers are effective in killing adult roundworms. These drugs contain ingredients that inhibit the metabolism of worms and releasing them through feces. But of course, to ensure that all adult worms are released, treatment must be repeated for two to three times. But remember that immature larvae are too strong to be killed by drugs. So a good advice would be, as you repeatedly have your dog dewormed, clean his feces as soon as possible.

  • Eliminate rats and mice from your area

Rats and mice are also usual carriers of roundworms. Getting rid of them is one way of avoiding your dog from getting infected.

  • Avoid bringing your dog to places where animals defecate

Stools are the primary source of roundworms. As infected dog’s stools spread on the ground, other dogs would be at risk of getting infected too.

  • Clean your surroundings

Start in your own area. Make your home as clean as possible. Every time your dog defecates, clean his dirt as soon as possible.

Dog Worms 3 is the most highly recommended dog de-worming medication. It is highly effective, is safe to use and does not require a prescription. Its a chewable tablet in pork liver flavor so its very easy to administer as well. You can find more information about it and also read customer testimonials here…

Related posts:

  1. Different Parasites in Dogs and How to Get Rid of Them
  2. Common Worms in Dogs and How to Treat Them

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