Whipworms

• Roundworms

• Hookworms

• Whipworms

• Tapeworms

• Heartworms

Whipworms are common parasites of the large intestine of dogs; they are thin and 5-7 cm long.

Using their mouths as a spear-like sword, whipworms slash and puncture the intestine wall and feed on the released blood and tissue fluids.

 

How Whipworms are Transmitted

A dog may acquire whipworms by accidentally ingesting the infective eggs in contaminated soil. The extreme resistance of these eggs makes the environmental control very difficult.

 

Understanding the Life Cycle of the Whipworm: The Key to Elimination

In the intestine of the dog, the eggs hatch and, in a few weeks, the larvae develop to adult, egg-laying worms. Since the eggs are not shed regularly, diagnosis can be difficult and several stool examinations may be required.

 

Disease

Because of their feeding habits, whipworms can cause bloody diarrhea, weight loss, anemia and dehydration, especially in case of heavy infestation.

 

Treating Whipworm Infection

A number of anthelmintic products are marketed for the treatment of whipworms. A few of them are also effective against all other common dog worms thus ensuring a complete protection of your pet.

Be sure to give to your pet the one that best satisfy his and your needs, in terms of ease of use, efficacy and safety (especially if very young pups are to be treated).