An Intro To Dog Parasites

Your dog can be affected by many different parasites. Some of these dog parasites dwell on the skin, while others invade the body. Sometimes, internal organs can even be damaged by these parasites. Keep reading to learn all about canine parasites.

Heartworms

One of the first common parasites is the heartworm. These parasites live in the heart and blood vessels that connect the lungs to the heart. The worms can number in the hundreds if they’re left unchecked. Since the heart and lungs are affected, heartworms can easily prove to be fatal. The heart may fail suddenly if the infestation of heartworms gets too severe.

Lice

Dogs can also be infected with lice. Lice can suck on your dog’s blood or simply chew on his skin. Lice can only be transmitted through direct contact.

Lice can cause severe itching, hair loss, and poor coat of hair. Lice can be treated using pyrethrin shampoo. You will need to shampoo your dog at least twice, as most of them won’t be killed at first.

Hookworms

Another common parasite is the hookworms. Once inside the body, they make their way to the small intestine. They start sucking blood after attaching themselves to the small intestine’s wall. This can lead to severe anemia. Serious consequences of an untreated infestation include severe hemorrhaging and death.

These parasites can be treated using an oral or injected medication. However, this medication is only effective in killing adult worms and not larvae. Treatment will have to be repeated in a month or so when the larvae have matured into adults and can be killed with the medication.

Ear Mites

Ear mites usually invade the ear canal, but can live anywhere on your dog’s body. These mites are very infectious and will readily infect nearby animals. Dogs with ear mites constantly shake their heads and scratch their ears. Permament hearing loss may result if the eardrum becomes damaged.

Dogs can be affected by many common illnesses in dogs. Fortunately, dog-illnesses.com provides a wealth of information on a range of these conditions. So, come by right now to become informed.

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