People who have owned dogs for a while get used to seeing the most common signs of an infection with worms such as the swollen belly (especially in puppies) and the appearance of the worms themselves. But recognizing worms can be tougher if you are not as experienced or if the signs are more subtle. Here are some clues that your pet might be under attack.
Instructions
Vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss are some of the more common signs of worm infection, but can also be indications of other ailments. If you see these signs, schedule an exam, including a stool check, with your veterinarian.
Other symptoms of worms may include a dulling of your dog’s coat, loss of appetite and low energy level. In the case of advanced-stage heartworm infestation, your pet may lose the ability to tolerate exercise.
Be suspicious of coughing and hiccoughing. These can also reveal the presence of worms.
Two of the most common varieties of worms, roundworms and tapeworms, are visible to the naked eye. Roundworms are spaghetti-like, and make their appearance in vomit and stool. Tapeworms become plainly visible and look like moving rice grains in the feces, around your pet’s anus or on the nearby fur.
Hookworm and whipworm must be detected under a microscope from a stool sample, usually in your veterinarian’s office. Heartworm requires a blood test.