Roundworms, also known as nematodes, are a type of parasite that can infect dogs. The infection is caused by ingesting the parasite, typically through contaminated soil or water.
In most cases, roundworm infections in dogs don’t cause any serious symptoms, but they can be dangerous if left untreated.
In this blog post, we will discuss what roundworms are, how to identify them in your dog, and the best ways to treat and prevent them.
What Are Roundworms?
Roundworm parasites live inside the intestines of their host animal and feed off of the nutrients present there.
They vary in size from 2 to 6 inches long when fully grown and have a cylindrical shape like a spaghetti noodle. Roundworms are common parasites found in both cats and dogs; however, puppies are particularly vulnerable because they haven’t built up immunity yet.
Identifying Roundworms in Dogs
The most common symptom of roundworm infection is diarrhea or constipation.
Other symptoms include a pot-bellied appearance caused by abdominal swelling due to increased gas production in the intestines; vomiting; weight loss; dull coat; listlessness; coughing (due to migrating larvae); and occasionally intestinal obstruction due to an accumulation of worms.
If you suspect your pup has roundworms, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis so that the correct treatment can be prescribed.
Treating and Preventing Roundworm Infections
The good news is that roundworm infections are generally easy to treat with medication prescribed by a veterinarian. The medicine may need to be repeated several times over several weeks until all signs of infection have disappeared from your pup’s stool sample.
Regular de-worming with products like Interceptor Plus will help prevent future infestations as well as protect against other parasites such as hookworms and whipworms.
It’s important for pet owners to practice good hygiene around their pets by cleaning up after them when outdoors and washing their hands often after handling or playing with them.
Conclusion
No matter how careful you are with your pet’s health, there is always the chance that they could become infected with parasites like roundworms at some point in their life—especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors or come into contact with other animals who may carry parasites.
Fortunately, identifying and treating roundworm infections is usually straightforward thanks to modern veterinary practices and preventive medications available on the market today!
If you suspect your pet has roundworms or would like more information on prevention methods available for your furry friend, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian right away!
