What are hookworms?
Hookworms are parasites that have hook-like mouths that burrow into animals' intestines, particularly cats and dogs. While they are only about one-quarter of an inch to three quarters of an inch in size, these parasites pose a serious risk to your dog's health, and can be fatal for puppies that develop serious complications.
Once they've attached themselves to your pet's intestine, they voraciously consume significant quanities of blood and nutrients your pet needs to survive. Hookworm infections can lead to anemia or inflammation of the intestine. They thrive in environments that are warm, moist, overcrowded, and inadequately sanitized.
What causes hookworms in dogs?
There are four ways hookworms can be transmitted between dogs. These include:
- Larvae can penetrate your dog's skin, leading to infection.
- Dogs can easily ingest hookworm larvae when grooming their feet or sniffing contaminated soil or feces.
- Unborn puppies can contract hookworms via the mother's placenta in utero.
- Once born, puppies can contract hookworms by drinking an infected mother's milk.
The Lifecycle of Hookworms in Dogs
There are three main stages to the hookworm lifecycle. These are:
- Eggs – Adult hookworms lay eggs while inside the dog's intestinal tract. 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 enter the dog's body, they migrate to the intestine, mature into adults and start the lifecycle again.
Clinical Signs & Symptoms of Hookworm Infections in Dogs
Hookworms often cause intestinal or stomach upset in dogs. Additionally, you may observe these clear symptoms:
- Pale gums
- Dull, dry coat
- Generalized weakness
- Coughing
- Bloody diarrhea
- Significant, unexplained weight loss
- Failure of the puppy to grow or develop properly
- Skin irritation (especially around paws)
If you see any of these signs in your puppy or adult dog, contact your vet right away. Severe hookworm infections can be fatal for puppies. If your puppy starts to show signs of illness, seek emergency veterinary care right away.
Diagnosing Hookworm Infections in Dogs
Veterinarians diagnose hookworm infections by conducting fecal tests to look for hookworm eggs in a dog's poop. Your vet will require a fresh stool sample to complete a fecal test. They will likely request that you bring this to the appointment when you call to book. They will then mix the sample with a solution.
If hookworms or hookworm eggs are present, they will float to the top of the solution. This test is most accurate once the hookworms have completed a full lifecycle and eggs have been produced. Unlike other worms and parasites, hookworms can remain attached to your dog's intestinal tract after defecation.
Fecal float tests may not be the optimal choice for young puppies. Hookworms take two to three weeks to reach maturity and begin egg production.
Treatment for Hookworms in Dogs
Anthelmintic (parasite-destroying) drugs eliminate hookworms effectively. These medications are given orally on a schedule pre-determined by your vet. However, they specifically target adult hookworms, necessitating repeated treatment every two to three weeks. If your dog is diagnosed with hookworm-induced anemia, your vet may perform a blood transfusion to prevent more blood loss and save your pup's life.
Are canine hookworms contagious to people?
The transmission of hookworms to people doesn't occur directly. Instead, the feces of an infected dog will contaminate the soil. If you often lie on the ground or walk barefoot, you may experience 'ground itch.'
This is the result of hookworm larvae burrowing into your skin. The larvae can sometimes enter the organs, including your eyes. To prevent hookworm infection, maintain consistent bathing and hygiene habits.
How to Prevent Hookworm Infections in Dogs
Take these precautions to prevent your dog from contracting a hookworm infection:
- Have your puppy dewormed when they are about two to three weeks of age and if you or your vet notice signs of hookworm infection.
- If you have a female dog that's nursing, have both her and her puppies dewormed at the same time.
- 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 hookworms will also help prevent hookworms. Speak to your vet to learn more about parasite prevention for your canine companion.
Preventive Care Services at The Pet Hospital (Parkway)
Our vets focus on preventive care to prevent common diseases and disorders from impacting your pet's health.
When combined with regular wellness exams, pet vaccinations and parasite prevention at our clinic form the foundation of your furry friend's annual healthcare.
Preventive care gives your pet their best chance at a long, healthy life. Our team will work with you to create a plan for preventive care, including scheduling your cat or dog's vaccination and parasite prevention.
If you would like to schedule your cat or dog to come in for their shots at our animal hospital in Hattiesburg, please get in touch with our team.
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.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. If you are concerned about your pet's health, contact your veterinarian right away for diagnosis and treatment.