Worms are one-of-the-most common health problems in dogs. Although they often do not result in serious difficulties, in most cases, medicine can cure a dog of a worm infestation. However, eliminating the cause, when possible, may save dogs from needing frequent treatment.
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Mosquitoes
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One of the most serious parasites for dogs are heartworms. They are spread via infected mosquitoes. When these mosquitoes bite a dog, they transfer heartworm larvae directly into the dog̵7;s body, where the larvae thrive and begin to multiply. The best way to prevent this parasite is to use a prescription heartworm preventive on your pet. Many of these drugs will also prevent other parasites.
Fleas
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Tapeworm in dogs is often caused by dogs eating fleas. Fleas feast on tapeworm and become infected this way. The larvae are then passed onto the dog when he eats the flea (through biting his fur and skin). You must, therefore, treat for fleas (and treat the dogs̵7; quarters for fleas ) in addition to giving tapeworm medicine. Otherwise, re-infection is very likely.
Soil
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Soil infested with hookworms or roundworms are one cause of these parasites in dogs. Either can be acquired if the dog eats contaminated soil. Hookworms may also burrow into the dogs feet (or other areas of the skin) and infect him that way.
Prey
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Infected birds, rodents and other animals may cause worms (usually roundworm) in dogs if the dog eats these animals. Other than treating your dog with heartworm preventives that also discourage other parasites, the best way to prevent this is to prevent him from hunting and eating these animals (although this is not always possible, if your dog is an outdoor dog).
Other Dogs
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Dogs can get worms ( usually whipworms or roundworms) by eating the feces of other dogs who are infected with worms.
If a mother dog is infected with hookworm or roundworm, she may pass these parasites onto her puppies in the womb or through her milk.
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