Hookworms are another parasite that reside in the
gastro-intestinal tract of animals. These are one of the more interesting worms
as they have several characteristics that can set them apart from some of the
other intestinal parasite.
While hookworms can be picked up in the environment they can
also be transmitted from the mother to puppies during gestation. Hookworms tend
to be a little more aggressive when invading their host. They can be ingested
from a contaminated source but they can also enter through the skin. This is
especially important for humans to remember as they can be infected this way as
well. Another way they can be infected is by eating another animal (rodent,
bird etc) that has hookworms. This makes prevention even more important in our
pets. Many heartworm medications contain preventatives for hookworm
infestations as well. This can be one easy step that could help ensure your pet
does not contract these pesky parasites.
Hookworms received their name because they have 6 sharp
teeth that allow them to ‘hook’ into the lining of the intestines where they do
ingest blood. With a heavy enough burden patients can die or at the vet least
become quite ill. Again these worms can also affect people. It is extremely
important to practice good hygiene. If you pet has an infestation it is best to
wear shoes anywhere the pet has or can defecate, or where any animal can
defecate for that matter. Interestingly, we can also contract hookworms from
eating vegetables from the soil that were not washed properly. Bleach can be
used to clean areas that have been contaminated, but freezing (so the winter we
had) can also kill the worms.
Again this is treatable with an oral de-worming. These are
also a good reason for de-worming puppies regularly. Some dogs will show no
symptoms at all so that is yet another reason to bring in a stool sample at
least yearly to check your pet! For
further information the following are great websites (
here and
here)!
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