Roundworms

What are roundworms?

Roundworms are threadworms that can grow up to 20 cm long. They look like spaghetti and have a round cross-section. The scientific name of the dog roundworm is Toxocara canis. There is also another type of roundworm called Toxascaris leonina, which is less common.

The roundworms lay their eggs in the dog's intestines, which are excreted in the feces. The eggs are very resistant and can survive for several years in the environment. They are also immune to many disinfectants. The eggs can be found on public green spaces, playgrounds or in the garden.

When a dog ingests the eggs, for example by sniffing or eating contaminated material, larvae hatch in the intestine. The larvae then migrate through the dog's body and can damage various organs. For example, they can enter the lungs, where they cause coughing, or the muscles, where they encapsulate and rest.

Infection of puppies is particularly dangerous, as they can become infected in the womb or through their mother's milk. The larvae can reach the puppy's brain and cause serious damage. A severe roundworm infestation can even lead to death.

How do I recognize roundworms?

Many dogs show no or only unspecific symptoms of a roundworm infestation. This is because the dog's immune system can partially control the worms. The symptoms also depend on the number and age of the worms.

Possible symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Bloated stomach
• Anemia
• Cough
• Cramps
• Intestinal obstruction

The symptoms are usually more pronounced in puppies than in adult dogs. Sometimes you can also see roundworms or parts of them in the dog's feces or vomit.

To be sure whether your dog has roundworms, you should have a fecal sample examined by a vet. The vet can then recommend the appropriate treatment.

How do I treat roundworms?

Roundworms are treated with special worming medication, which can be administered as tablets, pastes or spot-ons. The anthelmintics kill the adult worms in the intestine, but not the larvae in the organs or muscles. Treatment must therefore be repeated several times to get rid of all the worms.

Treatment should always be carried out according to the vet's instructions, as the dosage depends on the weight and age of the dog. Care should also be taken to ensure that the dog absorbs the wormer completely and does not spit it out or vomit.

The treatment should also be repeated regularly to prevent re-infestation. The frequency depends on the dog's risk of infection. For example, puppies should be wormed every two weeks until they are three months old, then every three months until they are one year old. Adult dogs should be wormed every three to six months, depending on their lifestyle.

How do I prevent roundworms?

The best way to prevent roundworms is to worm your dog regularly. This will not only protect your dog, but also you and your family, as roundworms can also be transmitted to humans. Children in particular are at risk if they come into contact with infected dog excrement or sand.

Other measures you can take include

• Remove your dog's excrement from public areas or your garden immediately.
• Wash your and your child's hands after contact with dogs or soil.
• Keep your dog away from other animals' feces or prey.
• Do not feed your dog raw meat or offal that may contain roundworm eggs.
• Have your dog regularly examined and vaccinated by a vet.