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Roundworms are the most common type of worms in dogs. It is important to understand a bit about what a roundworm is and what will happen if your dog has a roundworm.
This article will specifically look at the lifecycle of a roundworm, as a firm understanding of this will aid in knowing the best way to pursue effective treatment.
Puppies are particularly vulnerable to roundworms because they can become infected before birth in their mother’s uterus or through their mother’s milk. Another common method of infection is through the ingestion of an infected animal or soil.
The Life Cycle
Stage 1
Roundworms have a fascinating and unique lifecycle. The eggs are originally passed in the host’s faeces, taking around a month to become infective again. It is possible for the eggs to remain infective for years, depending on their environment.
Stage 2
These eggs are then picked up by dogs, where they hatch in their internal tract. They then burrow out into other parts of the dog’s body. This is known as ‘second stage larvae’.
Stage 3
Second stage larvae can remain like this for years, mainly situated in the dog’s liver. When they move onto the third stage, they move up towards the dog’s throat and are swallowed, re-entering the intestinal tract.
Stage 4
Once in the intestine, they complete their maturation and begin to reproduce, thus completing the cycle.
Treating Worms in Dogs
Worms in dogs, especially roundworms, can cause serious health issues, particularly in puppies. The common symptoms are diarrhoea and vomiting, as well as a dull coat and a pot belly. These symptoms occur at the latter stages of a ringworm infection, so it’s important to regularly de-worm your dog.
There are numerous de-worming medicines that are effective, and if you have any queries your vet or other pet care specialist will be happy to help.
For expert information on a range of pet health issues, including worms in dogs, visit the Pet Health Information website. The Pet Health Information website hosts a wealth of knowledge on animal health information.