Tapeworms

How do you recognize tapeworms in dogs?

Tapeworms are flat, white worms that consist of many segments. These segments can detach from the main worm and become visible in the dog's feces or coat. They look like small grains of rice or sesame seeds. If you notice such segments in your dog, you should take him to the vet to get an accurate diagnosis.

Tapeworms can also cause other symptoms, such as

• Weight loss
• loss of appetite
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• Itching in the anus
• restlessness

How are tapeworms treated in dogs?

Tapeworms in dogs are treated with special worming medication prescribed by the vet. These anthelmintics kill the tapeworms and excrete them in the feces. The treatment usually needs to be repeated several times to ensure that all tapeworms have been eliminated.

It is important that you follow the vet's instructions exactly and give your dog the correct dosage of wormer. You should also make sure that your dog has no contact with infected animals or their feces to avoid reinfection.

How do you prevent tapeworms in dogs?

The prevention of tapeworms in dogs depends on how they become infected. There are different types of tapeworms that are transmitted by different intermediate hosts. The most common intermediate hosts are fleas and rodents.

To prevent your dog from getting tapeworms from fleas, you should treat him regularly for fleas and keep his environment clean. To prevent your dog from getting tapeworms from rodents, you should discourage him from hunting or eating rodents.

Another measure to prevent tapeworms in dogs is regular worming. You should have your dog wormed at least twice a year, or more often if he is at higher risk. You can ask your vet which dewormer is best for your dog.