Parasitism by definition is a pathological condition caused by the presence and growth of parasites in the animal body. Parasitic infection that manifests with clinical symptoms is referred to as parasitic disease, while when the infection is asymptomatic it is referred to as latent parasitism. Infection when it leads to parasitic disease has long-term consequences on the well-being of pets in general.
Let's review the basics of parasites in dogs. Dog parasites can be internal or external. Internal parasites that live inside the host dog's body include various types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. External parasites that live on the skin, coat, and in the dog's environment include fleas, ticks, and mites. It is important to mention mosquitoes and gnats, two ectoparasites that, while they do not live on the host dog, can transmit serious diseases to our beloved friends through their bites.
How are parasites transmitted?
Parasites in dogs can be transmitted in various ways, depending on the type of parasite.
The main ways of transmitting internal parasites are:
1) for worms (roundworms)
- Consuming contaminated food or water: The dog can ingest worm eggs from contaminated soil, food, or water.
- Transmission from mother to puppies: Precursor forms of these parasites can be passed from mother to puppies through the placenta or milk.
2) about tapeworms
- Ingestion of infected fleas: The dog can ingest fleas carrying tapeworm larvae.
- Eating contaminated, unsanitary meat: Infected meat or game that carries the larvae can transmit the tapeworm to the dog.
3) for hookworms
- Skin penetration: Larvae can penetrate the dog's skin from the soil.
- Consumption of contaminated materials: The dog can ingest larvae from contaminated soil, food, or water.
The main modes of transmission of external parasites are:
1) for fleas
- Direct contact: Fleas can jump from an infected animal or from the environment to the dog.
- Infested environment: Flea eggs and larvae may be found in carpets, furniture, or outdoor areas.
2) about ticks
- Direct contact with vegetation: Infected ticks often lurk in tall grass or bushes and attach themselves to the dog as it passes by. With their bite, ticks can transmit the serious infectious disease Ehrlichiosis, as they carry the bacteria called Ehrlichia into the dog's blood.
3) for mites
- Direct contact with an infected animal or environment: Mites can be transmitted from animal to animal or from infected bedding and surfaces.
4) for mosquitoes
- Bites: Infected mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease (dirofilariasis) when they bite a dog, a serious and often fatal disease. Infection occurs when the mosquito that bites the dog transfers the parasite's larvae into the bloodstream.
5) about mosquitoes
- Bites: Mosquitoes infected with the parasite can transmit Leishmaniasis when they bite a dog, another serious infectious disease that systematically affects the dog's organs and immune system. Infection occurs in the same way, through the mosquito bite.
What are the most common symptoms of infection?
Symptoms vary and depend on the severity of the infection and the type of parasite. They may be mild at first, but in some cases they can become more severe and require special attention.
Some of the signs of parasites in your dog may be:
For internal parasites: Vomiting, abnormal bowel movements (with visible worms, unusual "whites", blood or mucus, mushy or diarrheal bowel movements), discomfort in the anal area (rubbing on the floor or licking the area intensely), cachexia, weight loss, bloating, coughing, difficulty exercising, depression.
For external parasites: Intense itching, redness or irritation of the skin, dullness or loss of hair, visible parasites in the hair.
Prevention and Protection
Antiparasitic drugs
There are various medications that protect your dog from the parasites we mentioned above. These can be pills, sprays, collars, or ampoules that are applied to the skin.
Insect repellents
You can use insect repellent products that are safe for animals in the area where your dog lives and also by spraying him if the product allows it.
Environment
Keep the area around your home clear of standing water, where mosquitoes can breed.
Protection system
Use screens on windows and doors to prevent insects, especially mosquitoes, from entering the house.
Antiparasitic drugs are the "A" and "Z" when it comes to prevention and protection, and it is best to use them in combination. It is important to always consult your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate method based on your four-legged friend's characteristics and living environment.