After we started thinking more seriously about expanding our family, my husband brought up the idea of getting a pet or two. While I was completely against the concept at first, I realized that it might be helpful for our children to warm up to the idea before having another sibling. We got a dog and our kids were tasked with the job of feeding it every day and doing other tasks, and it was amazing to see how much the animal helped our family to grow. Pets can be a wonderful addition to a home, which is why I made this blog. Check out these fun pet posts.
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Selecting Better Pets
3 Signs Your Dog Needs To Deworm: How To Tell If Parasites Are Ruining Your Pet's Health
Natalie Baker
No dog owner wants to think about their pet having parasites, but unfortunately, it's a reality for many. Intestinal parasites, or worms, are a common problem in dogs and, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems.
The good news is that effective treatments are available to get rid of these unwanted guests and keep your dog healthy. Here are three signs to look out for that may indicate your dog needs to deworm.
Weight Loss
Many people are surprised to learn that weight loss can be a sign that their dog needs to deworm. While there are many possible causes of weight loss, parasites are a common culprit.
Dogs can become infected with parasites through contact with contaminated soil, water, or other animals. Additionally, some parasites are transmitted through the placenta to puppies during pregnancy or through their mother's milk.
Once in your dog's system, parasites can steal nutrients from their host, leading to weight loss, even if your dog eats the same amount of food. If you notice your dog losing weight, even if they seem to be eating normally, it's important to take them to the vet for a check-up. Your vet will likely recommend a dewormer if they suspect parasites are the cause.
Changes in Appetite
A dog with intestinal parasites may have a loss of appetite or may seem ravenous all the time. That's because parasites can cause irritation and inflammation in the intestines, leading to discomfort and a loss of appetite.
In some cases, dogs may eat more than usual because they're trying to compensate for the nutrients they're losing to the parasites.
If you notice a change in your dog's appetite, you should take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Based on their findings, your vet may prescribe a dewormer. Deworming medication can be given orally or injected, depending on the type of worm your dog has. For instance, tapeworms are usually treated with oral medication, while heartworms are best treated with injections.
By giving your dog the appropriate dewormer, you can help them get rid of the parasites and return to their normal appetite.
Diarrhea
Intestinal parasites can also cause diarrhea, which may be watery, bloody, or contain mucus. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it's important to keep an eye on your dog if they have this symptom. If you notice any changes in your dog's stool, or if diarrhea lasts more than a day, take them to the vet.
Your dog may need to be treated with a dewormer if they have diarrhea caused by parasites. In some cases, your dog may also need to be hospitalized for IV fluids and other treatment if they're severely dehydrated.
Intestinal parasites are a common problem in dogs, but there are effective treatments available. If you notice any of these three signs in your dog, take them to the vet for a check-up. With the right treatment, you can help your dog get rid of the parasites and return to good health. For more information, contact a company like VetaFarmProducts.
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