How to Tell If Your Dog Has Worms: Here’s What to Look Out For

Nobody likes to think that their beloved pet might have parasites, but worms are unfortunately a common problem in dogs. However, the good news is that even if your pup has worms, there are treatments available for them. To help you keep your canine healthy and happy, let's look at how to tell if your dog has worms and what signs to look out for.

Symptoms of Worms in Dogs

If you think your dog might have worms, there are a few telltale signs that can indicate an infestation. The most common symptom is unexplained itchiness around the anus. This can be caused by a variety of things, but if it persists for more than a couple of days, it could be an indication that your pup has worms. Other signs include vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes containing visible pieces of worm), weight loss despite regular feeding habits, a dull coat of fur or hair loss due to irritation caused by the parasites, and frequent coughing or difficulty breathing (especially in cases involving heartworm). If you notice any of these symptoms in your pup, it’s time to pay a visit to the vet.

How To Tell If Your Dog Has Worms

The only sure way to tell if your furry friend has worms is through a stool sample test administered by your vet. A sample will allow them to check for eggs associated with various types of worms. If you think your dog might have worms, talk to your Fetch A Vet veterinarian about the best plan of action— your pup should be worm-free in no time.

Types of Worms in Dogs and How To Treat Them

There are several types of worms that can affect canine health. The most common include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and heartworms. Each type of worm affects dogs differently and is treated differently as well.

Most medications used to treat canine parasites come in pill form; however, some treatments require injections or topical ointments, depending on the severity and type of infestation. Be sure to follow all of your vet’s instructions carefully and administer medications exactly as prescribed—this will ensure that you get rid of all unwanted guests quickly and effectively.

How To Prevent Worms In Dogs

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dealing with parasites like worms. To prevent worms from taking up residence in your pet’s body, make sure you feed them quality food and keep them up to date on their deworming schedule as recommended by their vets. Additionally, clean up after them immediately after they go potty and dispose of their waste properly—this will help reduce their risk of contracting any type of worm infestation.

Nobody likes thinking about their pet having worms—but understanding how they spread and what signs they present can help ensure that you catch them early enough for effective treatment. Knowing how to tell if your dog has worms is just one way to keep them happy and healthy so that they can continue being loyal companions for years (or decades!) to come. If you suspect that your pup might have worms or parasites, don’t hesitate— get in touch with Fetch A Vet in Bluffton right away! They will be able to help diagnose any issues and get your pet on their way back to being worm-free and healthy.

‍