Protect Your Canine from Worms During the Chilly Weather
Contrary to popular belief, deworming is an essential practice even in winter because these internal parasites are present all year and can be more than a threat to your furry friend. Hence, irrespective of the season, treating your dogs for these gastrointestinal worms with the regular deworming method is an absolute necessity to keep your four-legged companion parasite-free and healthy.
In this blog, we will discuss why deworming in winter is crucial, what types of worms affect dogs and how to deworm your canines.
Let’s get started!
Why is worming necessary in winters?
It is believed that worms disappear or are less active during the chilled temperatures. While winter may bring some relief, these stubborn critters do not completely disappear and constantly look for a host like your dog. Fleas can carry tapeworms and transmit them to your furry friends through ingestion even indoors as fleas tend to hide in beddings, furniture, etc. Roundworms or hookworms can be transmitted through ingestion when your canine eats contaminated soil, feces, etc. while enjoying their walk. New-born puppies can get worms from their mother, irrespective of the season. Therefore, it is essential to deworm your four-legged friends even during the winter season.
Now, let’s first understand what these worms look like, how dogs get worms and what are the common symptoms of the infection
Types of intestinal worms that affect dogs
Here are the most commonly found intestinal worms in dogs:
Roundworms
Roundworms are long, white-colored, spaghetti-like worms that grow up to several inches and live in the intestine of dogs. They lead to several digestive issues, coughing and a pot-bellied appearance.
Hookworms
Hookwormsare short, bloodsucking parasites that feed on the dog’s blood and attach themselves to the lining of the small intestine. They can cause anemia and severe health issues, if not addressed on time.
Whipworms
Whipworms make their room in the dog’s large intestine and are commonly found in the colon and cecum. They suck the host’s blood to survive and lead to weight loss and bloody diarrhea in dogs.
Tapeworms
Tapewormsare flat, ribbon-like worms that live in the dog’s small intestine. These blood-sucking worms lead to weakness, vomiting and weight loss.
How do dogs get worms?
Mentioned below are some common ways through which dogs get worms:
- Through ingestion: Dogs get exposed to worm eggs or larvae during their daily walks where they can ingest worms by eating contaminated soil or feces. They also carry a risk of getting worms by consuming infected prey animals during their walks.
2. From infected animals: Dogs can also get worms by coming in close contact with an already infected animal.
3. From their mother: Puppies can get worms from their mothers before they are born or through breast milk while nursing.
4. Through fleas: Parasites like fleas can transmit tapeworms to canines. When a dog accidentally ingests the infected flea while licking the itchy area, it may lead to tapeworm infection.
Know More about : 5 Unexpected Modes of Intestinal Worm Infection to Your Dog
Symptoms of worm infestations
Take a look at the signs of worm infection in dogs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Weight Loss
- Dehydration
- Abdominal Pain
- Decreased Appetite
- Dark or Bloody Stools
- Visible Worms in Stools
When & how to deworm your dog?
Irrespective of the season, it is important to deworm your dog regularly to keep them protected from intestinal worms. Though the deworming schedule for dogs may vary, however commonly puppies should be dewormed every 2 weeks until they are 3 months of age. Adult dogs need deworming at least 4 times a year. Female dogs also need deworming when they are pregnant or lactating according to the requirement. Always consult the veterinarian for a tailored deworming schedule for your pet.
There are various dewormers available in the market to suit individual dog preferences and lifestyles. You can consider using Endogard Plus, Simparica Trio or Kyron Antezole Deworming Tablets to protect your dogs against different intestinal worms.
Final Words
Dogs can get infected by worms during any season which can cause various health issues but the good news is you can protect them against these parasites with the right approach. Equip yourself with the information provided in this blog and keep your canine companion happy and healthy.
