The focus this month is Internal Parasites.
Internal parasites are organisms that live inside of other living organisms. Most people think of fleas and ticks when thinking of parasites; however, the majority of parasites are internal. Most parasites can be found in sandboxes, dirt and grass. Parasite eggs can live in your pet’s feces outdoors for months. The most common parasites are Roundworms, Hookworms, Tapeworms, Giardia, Coccidia and Heartworms. Roundworms and Hookworms are the most common parasites that transmit to humans.
Roundworms are found in the small intestine, although the larvae can travel to the lungs, living and other organs. The larvae can cause damage to the nerves in the eye. In some cases, they cause diarrhea, vomiting and in extreme cases pneumonia and intestinal obstruction.
Hookworm larvae move about within the skin causing inflammation. Hookworms can penetrate into deeper tissue and cause more serious damage to the intestines. Hookworms “hook” onto the intestinal wall and feast on the pet’s blood.
Tapeworms are found in the small intestines. These worms grow to 6 inches or longer. Tapeworms are transmitted from pet’s ingesting fleas exclusively. Sesame type seeds near the pet’s bed are divided up tapeworm segments.
Giardia is another parasite found in the small intestines causing massive diarrhea. This parasite is common in shelters where large groups of animals are housed. Giardia can potentially infect humans. Giardia is transmitted through contaminated water, licking fur that has been in contact with infected feces.
Coccidia is another parasite that affects young pets and is transmitted similar to Giardia. Coccidia can cause bloody, severe diarrhea.
Heartworms are transmitted by the bite of a mosquito with the larvae for heartworms. Climate has allowed mosquitoes to expand their range and seasons cause more pets to be at risk.
The most common signs of parasite infection in pets are diarrhea, vomiting, pot-belly look, poor haircoat, decreased appetite, wight loss, coughing, allergic reactions, anemia, nutrient loss and toxicity. Fecal exams are a part of your early detection program.
Parasite infection in humans presents digestive problems, liver damage, lung damage, blindness, skin lesions and itchy skin. Children are more vulnerable to worm infection, due to playing on the ground with contaminated dirt. Some kids also go through stages in which they eat dirt.
How to protect yourself and your pets against worm infection?
§ See your vet annually and test regularly for parasites
§ Remove the pet’s feces from the yard often
§ Wash your hands after playing with pets
§ Teach your kids not to eat dirt
§ Check your pet’s bedding frequently
§ Don’t let your pets lick you on the mouth.
Your vet can recommend treatment to eliminate and help prevent work infections.
Peace,
Dr. G
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