Dealing With Tapeworms in Dogs

Just as with people, man's best friend can suffer from a variety of sicknesses. It is important to be able to recognize when your dog is sick and the symptoms that may be indicating a typical canine sickness. One common form of aliment that many dogs suffer from is worms. While numerous pet owners take measures to prevent worms in their four legged friends, some find that their pets develop the sickness regardless of their efforts. Dealing with tapeworms in dogs is one common issue that should not go unnoticed.

Tapeworms are flat and segmented worms with a head that has suctions. The worms uses its suction power to attach itself to the animal's intestine. The worm then feeds off of the nutrients that the dog receives.

Tapeworms are most often noticed in the animal's feces or near the anus of the animal. An adult tapeworm can grow to be over 20 inches long. However, the segments that come from the worm that are seen usually look like grains of rice. Before drying out, you may see the segments wiggle and move.

In addition to finding worm segments or eggs passed from the dog, a severe infection of tapeworms may cause the pet to vomit, have stomach discomfort or gnaw at its hind parts or scoot across the floor due to the worm segment irritation. The worms are most often seen during the warmer months of the year but can infect a dog at any time.

If it is discovered that a dog has tapeworms, the most common form of treatment are tablets. The ingredient praziquantel is found in tablets such as Droncit and Tradewinds. These tablets are obtained through your veterinarian office. The number of tablets that a canine is given is determined by the animal's body weight. The tablets are not safe to use in pregnant pets or pets younger than 7 weeks of age.

Many different over the counter options are available for treating and preventing worms in dogs. However, it is best to take your pet to or contact a vet if you suspect tapeworms. Treatments gained from a vet office are often more effective than those gained through pet supply stores. The cost of the tablets from the vet office is fairly inexpensive and the treatment is easy.

Once your pet is cured from tapeworms, it is important to take measures to prevent re-infestation. Most dogs gain tapeworms from eating fleas that are carrying the parasite. For this reason, the best prevention that you can give your animal is flea and tick control. During the prime seasons of fleas, ensure that your pet is protected with a flea collar, flea dip, or flea spray.

Additional means of preventing tapeworms includes taking your dog to the vet for an annual check-up. Animals that feed on smaller animals such as rodents are also more prone to tapeworm infestation.

While tapeworms are fairly common in dogs and are easily treated, they should not go left untreated. Tapeworms rob your pet of needed nutrients and can greatly affect a dog's digestive system.