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Dog Whipworms
from: Kyle BesserWhipworms are a parasite that you may not have heard of, but one that is definitely a danger to dogs. The reason they are called whipworms is because they actually resemble a whip in that they are thin on one end and thicker on the other end. Whipworms are hearty organisms that can survive outdoors for very long periods of time.
Like other internal worm feeders, whipworms get into the dog's body when the dog ingests the eggs or the immature form of the whipworm. Dogs most frequently ingest whipworm eggs when cleaning their paws or drinking infected water. The whipworm then reaches maturity as it moves through the dog's digestive system.
The adult whipworms will fasten themselves and draw blood from the cecum, which is a pocket between the small and large intestines. The mature female lays her eggs inside of the dog. The eggs are then excreted through the feces.
Many dogs carry infections of whipworms without displaying symptoms. Typical symptoms that a dog may show if infected with whipworms include loose and bloody stool, a dull coat, weight loss, yellow-green vomit, and anemia. Severe anemia and dehydration are rare but can prove deadly if not treated. Young dogs and puppies are more susceptible to dangerous infections.
Treatment for whipworms should always start at your veterinarian's office. Your veterinarian will be able to determine the presence of whipworms by examining your dog's stool specimens. Several stool samples may be necessary because whipworms are sometimes very difficult to detect.
If the dog is infected with whipworms, your veterinarian will likely administer a potent deworming agent. One treatment will not cure the problem. Because of the long lifespan of the whipworm eggs and likely reinfection, ongoing treatment is advisable. Your vet can advise you the best course of treatment. Also, since you may be combating whipworms around the house, ask your vet about products you can use to rid your household of whipworm problems.
You can help prevent your dog from being infected with whipworms. If your dog is an outdoor dog, be sure to keep the dog in dry quarters that are regularly exposed to the sun. Whipworms require moisture to survive. Also, pick up dog waste and dispose of it promptly.
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