Parasites—the very word can make you cringe, but it's a problem that many pet owners will have to face once in a while. Unfortunately, most dogs will get some type of parasite at least once in their life. Many parasites are treatable, however, and you and your dog can get through it together.
Types of Parasites
A parasite is any organism that lives on, or inside of, a host—i.e., your dog. This organism will feed off of or feed at the expense of the host. There are several different types of parasites you might encounter as a pet owner.
Intestinal parasites live in the digestive tract. This includes worms, such as roundworms or tapeworms, or single-celled organisms, such as coccidia and Giardia. Signs of intestinal parasites include diarrhea, vomiting, distended abdomen, and scooting (the act of dragging his itchy butt along your carpet). Sometimes worms are visible in your dog's feces.
Blood parasites live in the bloodstream. Heartworms are bloodstream parasites; if left untreated they can cause organ damage. Babesia is another parasite transmitted by ticks that attacks the red blood cells. Dogs with bloodstream parasites may experience fever, weight loss, fatigue, or lethargy.
External parasites live on your dog's body. These include fleas, ticks, and mites. Symptoms generally include scratching, skin irritation, dry skin, hair loss, or black debris in the ears. Fleas and ticks can be seen on the skin if you examine your dog; mites are too small to see well with the naked eye but may look like dark dots.
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Parasite
As soon as you notice a parasite, you should call a veterinarian and make an appointment. While some parasites are easily treated and rarely cause complications, others can cause serious long-term health issues or may even be fatal. Certain types of parasites can be transmitted to other pets or even to humans. It's important to get to a vet so you know what you are dealing with and how to treat it.
When it comes to parasites, however, the best defense is a good offense. Most canine parasitic infections are preventable with medications. Your vet will be able to recommend the best preventative treatment for your dog.
Call Us for Help with Dog Parasites
The Animal Doctors have been committed to serving pets and their owners in the San Francisco Bay area for 40 years. We are proudly accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AHAA), meaning we adhere to only the highest standards in veterinary care, customer service, and cleanliness.
Our team of qualified veterinary medical providers offers exceptional primary care, including annual exams, in-depth diagnostic procedures, vaccinations, and preventative treatments. We treat dogs of all breeds, from puppies to seniors.
Get your dog on a preventative plan to save him (and yourself) from getting parasites. Contact our offices; we service the San Francisco Peninsula, including Atherton, Cupertino, East Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Portola Valley, Redwood City, Stanford, and Woodside.
