Hookworms are intestinal parasites that can cause big problems for dogs, especially puppies. In fact, hookworm infections can lead to anemia and even death if left untreated in young dogs.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about hook worms in puppies: how they’re transmitted, what symptoms to look for, how they’re diagnosed and treated, and most importantly, how to prevent them.
It’s also worth noting that hookworms are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans, so prevention is key for both your puppy and your family.
What are hookworms?
Hookworms are intestinal parasites. They attach themselves to the lining of a dog’s small intestine and feed on its blood, often leading to anemia and other problems. Adult hookworms are small, usually only about a quarter to three-quarters of an inch long.
The hookworm species Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala are commonly found in dogs.
How puppies get hookworms
Hookworm larvae thrive in warm, damp environments. Puppies can contract hookworms in several ways:
- Environmental contamination: Puppies can ingest hookworm larvae from soil or feces that are contaminated with the parasite. Hookworm larvae can also burrow through the skin, especially on the paws.
- Mother-to-puppy transmission: Puppies can contract hookworms while still in the womb (placental transmission) or through their mother’s milk. This is a primary reason puppies are so susceptible to hookworm infections.
- Ingestion of infected prey: If a puppy eats an infected rodent or other small animal, they may contract hookworms.
How do hookworms spread?
Hookworm eggs are released in an infected animal’s feces. After they hatch, the larvae can live for weeks or months in the soil, where they grow into their infective stage.
Once inside a puppy, they travel to the small intestine. There, they mature into adult worms and begin to lay eggs. The whole process—from the time the worm enters the dog to the time it starts producing eggs—takes two to three weeks.
What are the symptoms of hookworm infection in puppies?
Hookworm infections can be devastating for puppies. Here are the most common signs to watch out for:
- Pale gums (a sign of anemia)
- Weakness and exhaustion
- Failure to gain weight
- Bloody diarrhea
- A dull, rough coat
- Skin problems, especially on their paws
- Coughing (if the hookworm larvae migrate to the lungs)
Hookworms feed on a puppy’s blood, so severe infestations can cause life-threatening anemia. If you see any of these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian right away.
How are hookworms diagnosed?
The most common way vets diagnose hookworms is with a fecal flotation test. In this test, your vet will look at a sample of your puppy’s stool under a microscope to search for hookworm eggs.
However, fecal tests aren’t always accurate in very young puppies (less than 2-3 weeks old) because the worms may not be mature enough to lay eggs yet. In these cases, your vet may use PCR testing to look for hookworm DNA in the stool.
Treating hookworms in puppies
Vets typically treat hookworm infections with medications called anthelmintics, which kill the adult worms. Two common anthelmintics are fenbendazole and pyrantel pamoate.
Because these medications only kill adult hookworms, repeat treatments are usually necessary to get rid of any larvae that hatch later. Vets often recommend repeating the treatment in two to three weeks.
In severe cases, puppies may need supportive care, such as blood transfusions if they’re severely anemic or iron supplements.
Always talk to your vet for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Preventing Hookworm Infections in Puppies
Good hygiene and regular veterinary care can go a long way toward protecting your puppy from hookworms. Here are some important steps you can take:
- Deworm your puppy regularly. Puppies should be dewormed when they’re 2 or 3 weeks old, and then every 2 to 3 weeks until they’re several months old.
- Deworm nursing mothers. Nursing mothers should be dewormed at the same time as their puppies.
- Clean up dog waste ASAP. This prevents the spread of hookworm eggs and larvae.
- Keep yards and play areas clean and dry.
- Use a monthly parasite prevention medication. Many heartworm medications also protect against hookworms.
- Wash your hands frequently. This is especially important after handling dogs or cleaning up waste.
- Encourage children to wash their hands regularly.
Can hookworms infect people?
Yes, hookworms can infect humans. Typically, this happens when hookworm larvae burrow into exposed skin.
This can cause a skin condition called cutaneous larval migrans, sometimes referred to as “ground itch,” characterized by raised, itchy red tracks on the skin.
In rare cases, hookworm larvae can migrate to internal organs. Good hygiene and consistent preventative measures are essential to protect people from hookworm infections.
Wrapping Up
Preventing and treating hookworm in puppies is essential. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious health problems.
Regular deworming, careful disposal of dog waste, and good hygiene are the keys to prevention.
If you have a puppy, talk with your veterinarian about how to prevent hookworms and what to do if your puppy tests positive.