What it Means if You Find Worms in Your Dog’s Poop

Discovering worms in your dog’s poop can be unsettling. The sight of these parasites can trigger immediate concern, leaving you wondering what this means for your pet’s health. Worms in a dog’s stool indicate an underlying issue that requires prompt attention. This blog will walk you through what finding worms in your dog’s poop might mean and how you can best support your pet’s well-being. If you notice worms in your dog’s poop or have any concerns about their health, please call any of our Heart + Paw locations or book an appointment online.

 

 

What Types of Worms Are Found in Dog Poop?

Below are some of the most common worms you might find in your dog’s stool.

Roundworms

Roundworms appear as long, white, spaghetti-like strands in the stool. These parasites can be passed from mother to puppies either before birth or through her milk. Adult dogs can also become infected by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or other animals. Infected dogs may show symptoms such as a potbelly, vomiting, diarrhea, and a dull coat.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms often appear as small, rice-like segments in a dog’s poop. These worms are usually contracted by ingesting fleas that carry tapeworm larvae. Unlike roundworms, tapeworms don’t typically cause noticeable symptoms unless the infestation is severe. However, you might notice your dog scooting its bottom on the ground due to irritation caused by the tapeworm segments.

Hookworms

Hookworms are much smaller than roundworms and can be harder to detect in your dog’s stool. They feed on your dog’s blood, which can lead to anemia, especially in puppies. Hookworms can enter a dog’s body through the skin or by being ingested. Symptoms of a hookworm infestation include weight loss, anemia, and bloody diarrhea.

How Worms Affect Your Dog’s Health

The presence of worms in your dog’s poop is more than just an unpleasant sight—it’s a sign that your pet’s health could be at risk. These parasites can lead to several health issues, some of which can be severe if left untreated.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Worms compete with your dog for the nutrients in its food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially in puppies and older dogs. A dog with worms in poop may show signs of malnutrition such as weight loss, poor coat condition, and a decrease in energy levels.
• Anemia and Blood Loss: As mentioned earlier, certain types of worms, like hookworms, feed on your dog’s blood. This can cause significant blood loss over time, leading to anemia. Anemia in dogs can present symptoms such as lethargy, pale gums, and weakness. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
• Digestive Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, and a change in appetite are common symptoms. These issues can result in dehydration, weight loss, and further weaken your dog’s immune system, making it more susceptible to other illnesses.

How Do Dogs Get Worms?

Worms are contracted in various ways, depending on the type of worm and your dog’s environment.

Contaminated Soil and Feces

Many worms, including roundworms and hookworms, are spread through contaminated soil or feces. Dogs can ingest worm eggs or larvae by licking their paws after walking on infected soil, or by eating something that has come into contact with contaminated feces.

Flea Infestation

Tapeworms are often contracted through fleas. When a dog swallows an infected flea while grooming itself, the tapeworm larvae inside the flea develop into adult worms in the dog’s intestines. This is why controlling fleas is crucial in preventing tapeworm infestations.

Mother to Puppy Transmission

Puppies can be born with worms if their mother was infected during pregnancy. Roundworms and hookworms are particularly common in newborn puppies, making regular deworming crucial during the early stages of life.

When to Call a Veterinarian for Worms in Dog Poop

While seeing worms in your dog’s poop is concerning, there are specific situations where immediate veterinary care is even more critical.

Severe Symptoms

If your dog exhibits severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, extreme lethargy, or rapid weight loss, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian right away. These could be signs of a serious infestation or other health complications that require urgent care.

Puppies and Older Dogs

Puppies and older dogs are more vulnerable to the effects of worms due to their weaker immune systems. If you notice worms in the stool of a puppy or senior dog, consult with your veterinarian immediately to ensure they receive appropriate care.

Persistent Worm Infestations

If your dog has been treated for worms but you continue to find them in its poop, this may indicate a reinfestation or a treatment that wasn’t fully effective. In such cases, follow up with your veterinarian to explore alternative treatments or additional tests to identify any underlying issues.

How Are Intestinal Worms Treated?

Treating intestinal worms in dogs involves a combination of veterinary care, medication, and preventive measures to ensure the complete elimination of the parasites and to prevent reinfestation.

Deworming Medications

The primary treatment for intestinal worms is the administration of deworming medications, which are specifically designed to target and eliminate different types of worms. Your veterinarian at Heart + Paw will prescribe a dewormer based on the type of worms identified in your dog’s stool. These medications are usually given orally, but in some cases, an injectable form may be used. Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule to ensure that all the worms are effectively eradicated.

Multiple Treatment Rounds

In some cases, a single round of deworming medication may not be enough to completely eliminate the worms, especially if your dog has a heavy infestation. Your veterinarian may recommend multiple treatment rounds spaced a few weeks apart to address any remaining worms and newly hatched larvae. This approach ensures that the infestation is fully cleared.

Follow-Up Testing

After completing the deworming treatment, your veterinarian may request a follow-up stool test to confirm that the worms have been successfully eliminated. This important step helps ensure that no lingering parasites are present and that your dog’s digestive system is free of worms. If worms are still detected, additional treatments may be necessary.

Preventive Measures

Once your dog has been treated for worms, implementing preventive measures will help avoid future infestations. It is important to have a stool sample tested at least once a year. Regular deworming is recommended, especially if your dog is frequently exposed to environments where worms are common. At Heart + Paw, your veterinarian can provide guidance on the appropriate deworming schedule based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. Managing your dog’s environment by regularly cleaning up your dog’s feces from your yard, using flea prevention products, and minimizing your dog’s exposure to areas where other animals may have defecated can also help reduce the likelihood of future infestations.

Supporting Your Dog’s Health After a Worm Infestation

After your dog has been treated for worms, ongoing care and attention can help support their recovery and prevent future health issues.

• Focus on Nutrition: A dog recovering from a worm infestation may need a nutrient-rich diet to regain strength and health. Consult with your veterinarian about the best diet plan for your dog, which may include high-quality food and supplements to address any deficiencies caused by the worms.
• Regular Checkups: Routine wellness exams can help monitor your dog’s recovery and catch any potential issues early. Your vet can perform follow-up stool tests to ensure the worms have been completely eliminated and that your dog is on track to full health.
• Parasite Prevention: Maintaining a strong parasite prevention routine includes administering regular deworming treatments, using flea prevention products, and keeping your dog’s environment clean.

Caring for a dog with worms in poop requires prompt attention and action, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can help your pet recover and thrive. At Heart + Paw, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you find worms in your dog’s poop, call any of our Heart + Paw locations or book an appointment online today.