Hookworm in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & Prevention

Hookworms can reside in your dog's intestines, leading to unpleasant symptoms. In puppies, a parasitic infection can be extremely serious. In this post, our vets in Ankeny will discuss hookworms in dogs, how they are transmitted, and what can be done to treat and prevent them.

What are hookworms in dogs?

Hookworms, parasites equipped with hook-like mouths, burrow into the intestines of animals, especially cats and dogs. These parasites thrive in inadequately sanitized, moist, and warm environments, which poses a risk to pets.

Once attached to your pet's intestine, hookworms voraciously consume significant quantities of blood. Infections may result in anemia or inflammation of the intestine.

While all dogs can contract hookworms, puppies are at high risk of developing serious complications if this infection is not treated quickly.

What causes hookworms in dogs?

There are four ways that hookworms are transmitted between dogs:

• Larvae can penetrate your dog's skin, leading to infection. 
• Dogs can ingest hookworm larvae when grooming their feet or sniffing contaminated feces or soil. 
• Unborn puppies can contract hookworms via the mother's placenta in utero. 
• Once born, puppies can contract hookworms through an infected mother's milk. 

The Lifecycle of Hookworms in Dogs

There are three main stages to the hookworm lifecycle, they are:

1. Eggs: Adult hookworms lay eggs while inside the dog's intestinal tract. These eggs are then passed through the feces, where they hatch into larvae and contaminate the environment.
2. Larvae: Larvae can survive for weeks or even months in an external environment before infecting their next host.
3. Adult: Once the larvae enter the dog's body, they migrate to the intestine, mature into adults, and begin the cycle again.

Clinical Signs & Symptoms of Hookworm Infections in Dogs

Hookworms in dogs can cause intestinal or stomach upset as their primary symptoms. You may also notice other more visible signs:

Contact your vet right away if you notice these signs in your puppy or adult dog. Severe hookworm infections can be fatal for puppies. If your puppy begins to show signs of illness, please seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Diagnosing Hookworm Infections in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose hookworms in dogs by conducting fecal tests because hookworm eggs can be found in the dog's poop. Your vet will need a fresh stool sample for the test, so they'll likely ask you to bring it to the appointment when you schedule it.

During the test, they'll mix the sample with a solution, and if hookworms or hookworm eggs are present, they will float to the top of the solution. This test is most accurate when the hookworms have completed a full lifecycle and have started producing eggs.

Unlike other worms and parasites, hookworms can remain attached to your dog's intestinal tract after defecation. Fecal float tests may not be the best option for young puppies because hookworms take two to three weeks to mature and produce eggs.

Treatment for Hookworms in Dogs

Anthelmintic (parasite-destroying) drugs eliminate hookworms effectively. These medications are given orally on a schedule pre-determined by your vet. However, they specifically target adult hookworms, necessitating repeated treatment every two to three weeks. In the case of hookworm-induced anemia in your dog, your vet may perform a blood transfusion to save their life.

Are canine hookworms contagious to people?

The transmission of hookworms to people doesn't occur directly. Instead, the feces of an infected dog will contaminate the soil. If you often lie on the ground or walk barefoot, you may experience "ground itch."

This is the result of hookworm larvae burrowing into your skin. The larvae can sometimes enter the organs, including your eyes. To prevent hookworm infection, maintain consistent bathing and hygiene habits.

How to Prevent Hookworm Infections in Dogs

There are a few different ways that hookworm infections can be prevented. They are:

• Puppies should be dewormed at approximately two to three weeks of age and if symptoms occur.
• Nursing female dogs should be dewormed when their puppies are also dewormed.
• Always clean up after your dog at the park or on walks, and keep your yard free of dog waste.
• Be sure to wash your hands frequently when around your dog or after cleaning up dog waste. Also, ensure that your children wash their hands frequently.
• Keep your dog up-to-date on their parasite prevention. Many products formulated to prevent hookworms will also help avoid hookworms. Speak to your vet to learn more about parasite prevention for your canine companion.

Preventive Care Services at Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital

At Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital, our veterinarians focus on preventive care to prevent common diseases and disorders affecting your pet's health.

Combined with regular wellness exams, pet vaccinations, and parasite prevention at our clinic, it forms the basis of your furry friend's annual healthcare.

Preventive care gives your pet the best chance at a long, healthy life. Our team will collaborate with you to develop a preventive care plan, including cat and dog vaccinations and parasite prevention.

Don't hesitate to contact our team if you'd like to schedule preventive pet services like shots for your dog or cat.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.