The mere mention of worms summons unpleasant images in most dog owner’s minds. Intestinal worms are a dangerous health hazard for your dog and potentially can be spread to humans; therefore, need to be dealt with quickly.

There are several varieties of worms that may infect your dog. The most common types of worms observed in dogs are:

• Roundworms are worms found in the intestines. These worms can infect puppies and can be transmitted from the puppy’s mother. They can also infect humans.
• Hookworms will attach to your dog’s intestinal lining and suck a significant amount of blood from their host.
• Tapeworms infect your dog when they eat an infected flea or wild prey. Keeping your dog on flea prevention can significantly reduce the chances of your dog becoming infected with tapeworms.
• Whipworms are a small and dangerous whip-shaped intestinal parasite found in dogs. Whipworms are often found in newborn puppies.

Common signs that your dog may have intestinal worms are:

• Diarrhea
• Variation in appetite
• Potbelly appearance
• Painful abdomen
• Inability to gain weight
• Anemia
• Vomiting
• Poor coat appearance.

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, please contact us (706-568-4848) to make an appointment. We can test your dog for intestinal worms and prescribe the appropriate medication to deworm your dog of these dangerous parasites.