Dog Parasites and How to Stop Them

It is not uncommon for dogs to become infected with parasites, which are organisms that obtain their nourishment from another without providing anything in return. The damage inflicted is usually minor, but if left untreated, can quickly turn serious or even life-threatening. Dogs that live outdoors have the highest risk of contracting parasites. However, with some protection, you can prevent these problems and keep your dog comfortable.

Types of parasites
There are a dozen types of parasites to which dogs are susceptible. Here is a list with descriptions and treatments.

• Coccidia – These parasites live inside the intestine. They are caused by the swallowing of dirt or feces that may contain these parasites. They mostly affect puppies and can cause diarrhea. Puppies should be tested and feces kept cleaned up to prevent infection. If diagnosed with coccidia, there are medications the vet can prescribe.
• Ear mites – These are tiny bugs that live inside the ears of dogs. They produce brown ear wax and are contagious. They cause redness and itchiness in the ears. Ear mites can be easily treated by vets with a topical ointment or ear drops.
• Fleas – Fleas are the most common parasite and are particularly troublesome when it is warmer. They live in the dog’s fur and cause itchiness, which in turn can lead to hair loss from constant scratching. This scratching and black specs on your dog’s coat are signs of flea infection. Regular cleaning and vacuuming can prevent them, as well as flea treatment for your dog. Insecticide sprays, particularly in outdoor areas your dog likes, may be required.
• Heartworms – Heartworms are also common, but can also be prevented by giving your dog a monthly heartworm tablet. Heartworms can reach one foot in length and are transmitted by mosquitoes. Heartworms can be fatal is left untreated.
• Tapeworms – Tapeworms are long and flat. Dog owners may notice them in their dog’s feces or areas where their dogs sleep or eat. Tapeworms do not typically cause any symptoms in dogs. They are prevented by heartworm and flea medication, since fleas are the typical hosts for tapeworms.
• Roundworms – Roundworms are the most common worm found in dogs. In fact, almost all dogs become infected with them, typically as puppies. Roundworms may appear in a dog’s vomit or feces and cause weight loss. Roundworms can be prevented by some heartworm medications. In addition, it is important to keep your dog’s area clean.
• Hookworms – Hookworms feed on a dog’s blood through the intestine. They cause blood loss, which can be fatal in puppies. Weight loss and diarrhea are the most common symptoms. Hookworms thrive in contaminated areas, so it is important to keep your dog’s area clean.
• Whipworms – A dog can get whipworms by swallowing their eggs in soil. They are also spread through feces, so be sure to clean your dog’s area often. They may not cause any symptoms in most cases. However, serious cases can involve bloody diarrhea.
• Mange – Demodex, commonly known as mange, lives on the surface of your dog’s skin. It causes hair loss in patches, which can usually be treated. A clean environment and high-quality diet can prevent mange from occurring.
• Scabies – Scabies is caused by a skin parasite. They get under the dog’s skin and cause severe itching. It can lead to hair loss and scabs, especially on the ears, chest, abdomen and elbows. It is not easy to diagnose, but your vet can prescribe appropriate medication or treatment.
• Giardia – Giardia is often present in feces and water. It more commonly affects puppies. Diarrhea, which is the usual symptom of the disease, can lead to weight loss and even death if it is not treated. Providing your dog with clean drinking water at all times, in addition to making sure feces are kept cleaned up, is critical in preventing giardia. If you think your dog may have giardia, an examination of the dog’s feces can determine the diagnosis.
• Ticks – Ticks are common parasites that use their mouths to attach to a dog’s skin. Ticks live in brushes, trees and tall grass. Therefore, proper landscaping can prevent them and eliminate the need for tick medication. The remainder of this article will focus on the problems they cause and ways to deal with them.

Peteducation.com has more information about the various types of parasites, as well as their classifications and life cycles here.