What to do if your dog has worms
Dogs have always been considered as man’s best friends. Dogs have made a lot of difference to human’s way of life because of the limitless supply of unconditional love they give to their human family. It is therefore not surprising for pet owners to do everything necessary to ensure the health of the pets. Responsible owners not only make sure that the dog is provided with enough food because the pet is also regularly groomed and provided with opportunities to meet its exercise requirements. A dog owner concerned for the health of the pet would take time to bring the pet to the vet for its vaccinations. Unfortunately, dogs, in spite of these measures still get sick.
Worms are one of the most common enemies of dog owners. The life style of the dog makes these animals more prone to internal parasite infestation. Any dog owner will be exposed to the scavenging habit of the pet. Given the chance, dogs would raid trash cans, eat not only rotten food but their own and other dog’s feces as well. Would an owner be surprised to know that the pet has free loaders inside its intestines?
Although worm infestation can be easily treated, knowing if the pet is infested would be another matter. Some worms are vomited or excreted with the feces. However, other types of worm cannot be seen by the naked eye and a pet owner has to be aware of the other signs of infestation. Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and poor appetite are the common symptoms of worm infestation. Lethargy, pot bellied and a scurffy coat are telltale signs of worm infestation. Treatment is imperative as severe infestation can result to the death of the dog. Treatment is necessary as worms can be transmitted to the dog’s human family.
Blood test and fecal exam are necessary to administer the right worming medication that will wipe out the infestation. OTC worming medications can be purchased from any pet supply stores. OTC medications would certainly have an effect but a cautious pet owner would always consult a vet.
Because dosage of animal medications are commonly based on body weight, errors with the dosage is possible so that instead of killing worms, the treatment would have dangerous effects on the pet. Also, you may be giving the pet the wrong medication. You can save on the vet’s PF if you administer OTC medications but what would be a few bucks if you can be sure that the life of the pet will be saved.
Still wonder what to do if your dog has worms? Find out more about this and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.


