Toxocara & Spine Infection In Dog

Toxocara canis is a worm infection in dogs. These roundworms live in a dog's small intestine and can grow up to 18 centimeters in length. Diskospondylitis is a bacterial infection of a dog's spinal vertebrae and is diagnosed using a blood test, urinalysis, x-ray and spinal tap.

  1. Toxocara Canis

    • Toxocara canis is a worm infection in dogs. This common infection is caused by a parasite found in places frequented by dogs such as kennels and parks. There are usually no noticeable signs of the disease in dogs; however, puppies may show symptoms.

    Diskospondylitis

    • Diskospondylitis, a bacterial infection of a dog's vertebrae, is associated with plant awns such as fox tails and grass seeds. Bacteria enters the blood stream when the dog's skin is pierced by the awn. Diskospondylitis infection may also be caused by a urinary tract infection or dental disease.

    Symptoms of Toxacara and Diskospondylitis

    • Some signs that a puppy has Toxocara canis are coughing, nausea, diarrhea, a runny nose and a pot belly. Symptoms of Diskospondylitis in dogs may include weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, back pain and depression.