Intestinal parasites are a common infection of dogs and cats.Roundworms are a type of parasite that can infect our dogs and cats and also pose a threat to humans.
Roundworms are contracted a number of ways:
1. Contaminated soil that harbors the parasite
2. Via embryonic development while in utero (puppy contracts roundworms during pregnancy)
3. Puppies ingest the parasite via the mothers milk
Roundworm infection can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, pot belly appearance, unthriftiness and pneumonia.
Treatment with a number of available products is very effective in resolving the infection.
Human exposure is also a possibility. The infection is more likely in children and pregnant mothers. Roundworm infection in humans can cause " visceral larval migrans". This often leads to migration of the worm into the eyes causing blindness.
Prevention of parasitism is key for your pets health as well as your own. Your pet should be on a monthly heart worm preventative which also contains a intestinal parasiticide. In addition your pets stool should be picked up and disposed of to keep the environment clean.
West Boca Veterinary Center
Kim Simons, DVM
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