Battle Ground Veterinary Clinic, P.C.

Wellness Care

Intestinal Parasites: Hooks, Rounds, Whips, and Tapes

What are…

      Roundworms?  Roundworms are intestinal parasites that cause vomiting and diarrhea. This parasite is found in nearly all puppies at birth because they are contracted while in the uterus through the milk of their mothers. They can also be picked up from the soil or other animal feces.

Hookworms? Hookworms are intestinal parasites that can leave bleeding intestinal wounds. This parasite is often passed to puppies through their mothers and poses the threat of death from blood loss. Nearly 20% of all dogs in the United States are infected. Diarrhea is a sign of infestation, but animals may also show no symptoms at all.

Whipworms?  Whipworms are intestinal parasites that cause diarrhea, anemia, and weight loss. This parasite is difficult to detect, but affect one in seven dogs. In addition, once soil is contaminated with this parasite, they are extremely difficult to exterminate.

Tapeworms?  Tapeworms are parasitic flatworms that cause diarrhea and loss of appetite. This parasite can sometimes be detected by the human eye. When passed, a white, segmented worm can be seen near the rectum and is often referred to as “rice like.” Pets can be infected by this parasite by ingesting fleas or raw meat such as mice, rabbits, or uncooked beef or pork. Tapeworms can also be contracted by humans through the same channels.

Can these parasites affect humans?  The term zoonosis refers to a parasite or disease that can be passed from an animal to a human being. Zoonosis can cause humans to fall ill especially children and those who are pregnant, elderly, or have a compromised immune system. Roundworms are passed from animals to humans through the fecal-oral route and can potentially cause blindness. This parasite is most commonly a threat to children who are more likely to play outside and put objects and dirty hands in their mouth. Hookworm larvae can infect humans by penetrating the skin causing a skin infection. It has been estimated by the Centers for Disease Control that 1 to 3 million people are infected through zoonosis each year in the United Sates.

Can these parasitic infections be treated? Yes! Using a once a month heartworm preventative such as Heartgard or Interceptor hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms (Interceptor only) can be eradicated with 97% efficacy. The likelihood of tapeworms can be reduced by using a once a month flea treatment such as Frontline Plus. If tapeworms are contracted they can be treated with medication that can be obtained from our clinic. A fecal sample is used to microscopically detect intestinal parasites and should be conducted at least once a year. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed several times by a veterinarian starting as early as 4 weeks of age.

How can my family be protected?   In addition to fecal samples and dewormings for your pet, be sure to make your family’s environment clean and safe. Cover sandboxes when not in use and quickly dispose of any animal feces. Good general hygiene should also be practiced by washing hands after playing with your pet or digging in soil and keeping mouths away from any potential contaminated objects.