Canine Hookworms

HOOK WORMS are white long,and thin (1/4 to 3/4 inch in length). They look like pieces of thread that is enlarged at one end.  They have spear like sword mouths that puncture the intestinal wall and feed on released blood and tissue fluids. Can cause death by loss of blood and severe anemia. An adult can lay 50,000 eggs per day.  500 adult worms can rob a 5 lb puppy of 50% of its blood supply.

Worms can live in your dogs intestine, its lungs, its skin and its nervous system.  Dogs can pick them up from soil, faeces and from eating other animals such as slugs and snails.  They can also be passed to a puppy through the milk of its dam.  You should worm your dogs with a veterinary product or check for worms at least once every three months.

Hookworm Infestation 
Hookworm or "Uncinaria stenocephala" can cause itchy feet, diarrhoea and weight loss, though dogs affected by the illness often show no symptoms.  Kennelled dogs are most likely to contract hookworm.  The worm passes through the dogs gut and is excreted in its faeces.  Though people cannot be infected, both dogs and foxes can spread the worm.

Sometimes a hookworm may be missed if other problems are also present such as mange, allergies or dermatitis.

The worm larvae can be seen under a microscope but are not easily visible to the naked eye.  To diagnose the condition look for hookworm eggs in a faecal sample from a suspected carrier.  Treatment for hookworm is straightforward.  Drontal dewormer will work, but remember to treat the environment to avoid reinfection.
Harvey Caruthers

 

The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.