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Dog Roundworms
from: Kyle BesserDog roundworms look very similar to earthworms. Roundworms can grow to about 6 inches in length. They are a very common parasite that usually invade your dog's small intestines and large intestines. They are organisms are most likely to be found in puppies where they cause gastric and intestinal disorders.
The process of invasion begins with the roundworm feeding on the food in your dog's stomach and intestines. Next, the roundworms dig through the organ walls and then get into the bloodstream. From the bloodstream, the roundworm finds its way to the dog's liver and subsequently to the lungs. The roundworm eventually get into the trachea and are expelled into the mouth through coughing. The roundworm is then sent to the stomach and intestines through swallowing.
Roundworms that are left untreated are likely to migrate to a growing puppy's muscles. Once inside the muscles, the roundworms form cysts and vegetate. If the host is a female and becomes pregnant later in her life, her whole litter is also likely to be infected with the worms. The roundworms will once again start their journey to the puppy's lungs where they will remain.
On the positive side, dogs do eventually and naturally develop immunity to roundworms after a period of time. However, it is possible for some dogs to develop the condition again if they come into direct contact with infested food or feces.
There are several symptoms that are associated with roundworms. The most common symptoms are pain and discomfort, loose stools, loss of shine in coat and upset stomach. Puppies with regular roundworm infestation tend to have distended abdomens and may appear to be potbellied. Respiratory problems will also develop if there is a significant lung involvement. Puppies often get pneumonia from roundworm migration due to the alveoli becoming damaged.
In treating roundworms, your vet will need a stool specimen to check for presence of roundworms. There are several kinds of effective drug treatment that your vet may prescribe to fight these parasites. The treatment also gives the dog protection against roundworm infestation. Your vet may also recommend that your dog's stool be examined for worms at different stages of the treatment.
To prevent roundworm infestation, make sure that the female dog is thoroughly checked and treated before you breed her. To make sure that all worms are detected early, every dog should have stool specimens checked twice per year. Also, keep your dog out of the trash where roundworms could be waiting. Giving your dog a proper and filling diet will decrease the chance of him going through your trash.
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