Dog Fleas And The Pet Meds That Get Rid Of Them - Part Three

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Internal Parasites on Dogs

Internal parasites are actually worms. The common roundworm is found most often in puppies where they hatch in the intestines. If it is treated when the dog is young, rarely will a heavy infestation be found when the dog is older. 

These worms may be passed on occasion through the stool and look like thin spaghetti about 1-3 inches long, white, firm and sometimes coiled or curled. 

Hookworms are also common in puppies but a dog of any age can be infected. This worm in a heavy infestation can cause death and it will usually attack a weak, sickly animal. 

Things to look for are weakness, anemia, and thin, mucous-like diarrhea possibly with blood. Call your vet if you see these symptoms. 

Whipworms respond well to oral pet meds. Symptoms may be on and off diarrhea, poor condition and the coat may seem dry and brittle. 

Heartworms were most common in the coastal plain regions of the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico but they have spread to many other areas. The mature worms attack the right side of the heart and the pulmonary arteries. In advanced cases congestive heart failure to the right side of the heart can occur. Chronic coughing, tiring easily and weight loss are all signs of infestation. Since mosquitoes carry this worm you can monitor your dog against these pests and in areas where the mosquito is present, daily oral pet meds, found at pet supplies or by visiting 1 800 PedMeds.com are a good prevention.

Tapeworms are often found in the older dog. There are two species of this worm. One spends part of its cycle in the flea. When your dog eats a flea it becomes infected. The other spends part of its cycle in the rabbit or mouse. When the dog gets hold of and eats one of these animals it also becomes infected. This worm attaches itself to the lining in the intestines and some segments will break off and come out with the stool. It is usually easy to identify this worm and a stool sample can be taken to your vet for confirmation. Oral pet meds are very effective for this worm but may only last temporarily. Once a flea, rabbit, or mouse is ingested, the pet meds are again required.

Remember the information given here is only a guide and you should always check with your veterinarian if you think there is a problem or before administering any medication.

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