Worms are disease-causing organisms that can exist in the digestive system of your dog. They feed on the blood and nutrients of your dog and this may make the pet extremely sick or even die. Knowing the symptoms early is crucial to avoid worsening health conditions of your dog and have him or her live a happy life. Now let us take a look at some of the signs that your loved dog might have worms. So, that’s how to tell if your dog has worms.
Common Signs of Worms
Possibly the most visible sign of worms is when your dog begins to shed some weight for no discernible reason. Still, even if they are consuming the food normally, worms might be stealing the nutrition from the food. Worms can also bring various stomach diseases that are characterized by diarrhea and vomiting. If you see your dog has diarrhea or vomiting a lot, especially if it’s blood or has a coffee ground-like appearance it could be worms.
How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Worms?
If your dog is lying and dragging its anus on the ground then it could be due to worms. This is called scooting and such usually occurs when worms cause itchiness in the area it is located. A healthy coat is a hallmark of a healthy dog; it is smooth to the touch and has a natural sheen. If your dog has a dull, dry coat and is shedding more than usual, these are sure signs that worms have taken root. They can also cause your dog’s stomach to ache and make them look swollen. When your dog is itching its stomach area or is showing signs of pain, then it may be a sign of worms. Understanding the symptoms of dogs and worms will help you address any issues more effectively
Warning Signs of Serious Problems
If you discover that your dog’s poop contains blood – bright red or greenish, fresh or of a tar-like consistency – that is a problem. Worms have the ability to cause ulcers in the intestine and thus lead to bleeding. There are some worms which may cause your dog to cough frequently and even have breathing difficulties such as heartworms or lungworms respectively. The worms can also make your dog become extremely sleepy because they are consuming the energy and nutrients in your dog’s body. If the dog is licking or scratching the area around the anus a lot, it may be due to the irritation which worms cause. Identifying these signs early makes you act early if you realize your dog has worms.
Effective Treatment and Prevention
This chewable dewormer is useful in the treatment and control of seven types of worms in your dog to ensure they are effectively removed. These tablets are safe for puppies that are not less than 12 Weeks of age and small dogs that do not weigh up to 6.0 and 25 lbs. To prevent worms, there needs to be Washing of fur and feeding, Going to the vet and vaccinations, and Heartworm medication among others. For those who are searching for how to tell if your dog has worms, the above-mentioned are some of the signs to look for. Learning about the dogs and worms and symptoms can assist you in recognizing the worms in your dog.