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Whipworms in DogsWhipworms in dogs colonize the large intestine of dogs, particularly the cecum which is where the small intestine and large intestine meet.
The dog whipworm (Trichuris vulpis) is another common intestinal parasite that infect dogs.
The worm is long and slender. The adult worm can reach a length of 4 inches.
Whipworms got their name because of their shape - the front part of the worm is thin like a whip, and the posterior end
is thick like a whip handle.
Unlike roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms which live in a dog's small intestine, whipworms inhabit the large intestine,
in particular, the cecum which is where the small intestine and large intestine meet.
Whipworms in Dogs - How Do Dogs Get Infected?Dogs can get infected with whipworms by ingesting food or water contaminated with whipworm eggs. The eggs are swallowed, and hatch inside the dog's gut. In a little less than three months, the larvae mature into adults in the cecum and large intestine where they burrow their mouths into the intestinal wall and feed on blood. Unlike hookworms and roundworms, whipworm larvae do not migrate to other body tissues. Adult female worms lay eggs in the intestine and the eggs are passed in the feces, and the life cycle of the whipworms is repeated. TopSymptoms of Whipworms in DogsIf a dog has mild to moderate infestation of whipworms, he may not show any outward symptoms. However, in cases of serious infestation, whipworms in dogs can result in inflammation of the intestinal wall. Large amounts of mucus are produced by the inflamed intestine. Sometimes hemorrhage into the intestine occurs, resulting in anemia. Dogs with serious whipworm infestation may suffer from:
Diagnosis of Whipworms in DogsWhipworms in dogs are diagnosed by using a microscope to look for eggs in a stool sample. As whipworms are not as prolific as other gut parasites, multiple samples may be needed to get a definite diagnosis. TopConventional Treatment for Whipworms in DogsAs whipworms can cause health problems in dogs such as chronic colitis and anemia, it is important to eradicate the worms without delay. The best course of action is for dogs to receive conventional deworming treatment under veterinary supervision. However, after the conventional treatment, it is advisable to use natural remedies to "mop up" any remnants and to prevent further infestations. Visit our page on Roundworms in Dogs for information on using natural remedies to treat dog worms. TopAfter Care for Dogs with WhipwormsA dog with worm infestations is very often weak due to malnutrition (the worms rob the dog of a lot of essential nutrients) and/or anemia. It is therefore important to replenish the supply of essential nutrients to strengthen up the dog's immunity. Diet While your dog is being treated for worms, it is essential to feed him foods that are nutritious. A diet high in protein and fat is desirable (e.g. 40% of the diet should come from meat or eggs). Add fish oil to the dog's food for fat supply. Improve Digestion Even if you feed your dog nutritious foods, he cannot get all the nutrients he needs if the foods are not fully digested. To ensure that he can properly digest the foods and absorb the nutrients, feed him supplements of digestive enzymes and probiotics. Supplements Dogs with serious whipworm infestation usually suffer from anemia. Therefore, blood-building supplements rich in iron and vitamins should be given to provide the dogs' bodies with the necessary building blocks for new blood to be produced. Here is a great natural product for this purpose: Genesis Resources Blood & Energy Formula for Dogs and CatsPrevention of Whipworms in Dogs
Related Topics Dog Worms Roundworms in Dogs Hookworms in Dogs Tapeworms in Dogs References Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999). PetEducation.com TOP of Whipworms in Dogs |
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