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Old Dog Resources
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Canine Parasite - Roundworm
Overview - Canine roundworms belong to the ascarid worm family, members of which can infect dogs, foxes, both
wild and domestic felines, and humans. These large worms live and feed in the small intestine of their host. Though all ages of dogs are susceptible to this
parasite, puppies are generally hardest hit by infestations and may become seriously ill. Thankfully however modern medicine has provided us with a
plethora of de-worming medications, so treatment and prevention of roundworms is relatively simple and highly effective.
Adult dogs become infected when they ingest eggs that have been shed by another animal in its
feces. Older dogs that ingest roundworm eggs rarely fall clinically ill, though they may harbor larvae for the rest of their lives. Dogs less than a few months
old are much more likely to become infected after ingesting eggs. In these cases the eggs hatch into larvae when first ingested, then migrate through the liver
to the trachea. Once they reach the trachea, the larvae are coughed up and swallowed again. This time the larvae stay put in the intestine and mature into
adult worms, ready to start laying eggs of their own.
Parasite found - small intestine
Symptoms - The classic symptom of roundworm infection is a “pot-bellied” appearance, and other signs include
lethargy, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a dull coat. Weight loss is often a sign of significant infection, and very large numbers of worms
may sometimes cause an intestinal obstruction.
Once suspicion has been established because of physical symptoms of infection, definitive diagnosis
is based upon fecal sample examination. Characteristic roundworm eggs are readily visible in the feces of infected dogs, and your veterinarian needs only
to examine a small sample under the microscope to reach a diagnosis.
Treatment - If your dog has been diagnosed as having an active infection of roundworms, 2 to 3 doses of the
de-wormer will be necessary, as the drug kills only adult worms. Further doses are necessary to eliminate any newly matured worms that were larvae at the time
of the first dose.
Roundworm de-wormer is now often combined with preventative heartworm medication. Your veterinarian
will be able to provide you with more information regarding treatment and pharmaceutical methods of prevention.
Prevention - Proper hygiene is perhaps the most important factor in preventing round worm infections in both
humans and animals. The prompt disposal of dog feces is vitally important, especially in yards, gardens, and public parks. Dogs should be discouraged from
toileting in areas frequented by children, such as sandboxes or playgrounds. Finally, strict hygiene such as hand washing before meals is important,
especially in children.
Human Contact - Canine roundworms can infect humans, but in a different way than they infect dogs. Human children
are often infected by ingesting eggs found in soil, dog feces, or other contaminated substances. Once in the body, the eggs can hatch and cause visceral
larval migrans, a disease caused by the larvae migrating through liver, eyes, or nervous system of their human host. Such infections are rare, and normal levels
of hygiene are usually sufficient protection against human roundworm infection.
Source: Baker Institute for Animal Health
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