General
Information
Hookworms are relatively
common intestinal parasites of dogs, cats and other animals.
Adult worms live in the small intestine, and their eggs
pass out with the stool. Diagnosis is by identifying the
eggs during microscopic examination of the stool.
Animals become infected with hookworms
by eating infected eggs or larvae, penetration of the skin
of footpads by larvae, or transmission of larvae from the
mother while the fetus is still in the uterus. The time
from consumption of infected larvae to the appearance of
eggs in the stool in 15-26 days.
Hookworms are one of the most serious
intestinal parasites, as they feed on the blood of their
host animal and can cause severe anemia. In young, weak,
or mal-nourished animals, hookworms can cause sudden collapse
and death. Older, more resistant dogs may suffer a slow,
progressive wasting disease. Weight loss, diarrhea, and
tarry or bloody stools frequently occur in animals with
hookworms.
Public
Health Significance
Hookworm larvae can
penetrate human skin and cause a skin disorder known as
cutaneous larval migrans, or creeping eruption. This infection
is not common, but anyone who develops a skin rash after
being in contact with a pet with hookworms should consult
a physician.
Important
Points In Treatment
1. Treatment consists
of eliminating the worms and correcting any anemia and malnutrition.
Hospital treatment may be required in severe infections.
2. Medication must be given as directed.
Call the doctor if you cannot give the medication as directed.
3. Good sanitation is essential.
Promptly remove all stools from the area where your pet
is confined.
4. Control Measures: Regular microscopic
stool examinations are the best means of early detection
of hookworm problems. Products are available for treating
contaminated dog pens, runs, and tie-out areas. Discuss
this with the doctor if your pet is kept in a confined area.
In addition, heartworm preventive medications that also
prevent hookworms and roundworms offer the surest method
of hookworm control.
Notify
the Doctor if Any of the Following
Occur:
- Your pet
is weak or depressed.
- Your pet
is reluctant to eat, has diarrhea,
or vomits.
- Your pet
has dark or bloody stools.
