This week on Wormy Wednesdays we are going to focus on an
intestinal parasite. Whipworms are fairly common here in central Illinois . It is one of
the reasons we recommend yearly (if not twice yearly) stool samples.
Whipworms tend to set up shop in the intestines. This is
where they have the best chance of getting nutrients from the host. Because of
this location, there can be a variety of symptoms. This includes diarrhea,
which can be constant or waxing and waning. There can also be weight loss, mild
or significant noted. Another abnormality is a difference in the ratio of
sodium and potassium, this is assessed on blood work.
So how do they get whipworms? Typically it is from the soil.
It takes 2-3 weeks minimum for the eggs to be able to infect a host so fresh
stool samples are typically not a concern. The soil, however can house plenty
of these eggs to cause a problem. It may be necessary to avoid an area in the yard
for years to get rid of an infection. If not it is possible your pet will keep
having issues with this pesky parasite.
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They can be diagnosed from a stool sample. However it
may require more than one sample to accomplish a diagnosis. This is because the
female worms do not consistently lay eggs. When we assess a stool sample we are
looking under the microscope for the eggs and if we do not see them it does not
always mean the dog is truly negative.
Since it is nearly impossible to keep your dog from soil
that could be contaminated prevention may be a great option! There are many
heartworm preventatives available that are also labeled to help prevent
whipworm infections. While some intestinal parasites do pose a threat to humans,
whipworms do not typically cause issues. It is very important to practice good
hygiene and refrain from running around barefoot in affected areas, but they
are less of an issue than other internal parasites.
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Working with your veterinarian to set up a monthly
preventative as well as yearly or (twice- yearly) stool regimen is one of the
best things you can do to help keep you pet parasite free! If you have
questions call us today we’d be happy to help!
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