Found Worms in Dog Poop? What to Do Now

Discovering worms in your dog’s stool can be alarming for any pet owner. This unexpected finding often raises immediate concerns about your dog’s health and what steps you should take next. While the sight may be unsettling, understanding that intestinal parasites are relatively common in dogs can help you approach the situation calmly and effectively. This article provides guidance on identifying common types of worms, appropriate actions to take, and preventive measures to keep your canine companion healthy.

Types of Worms Commonly Found in Dog Poop

Different parasites have distinct appearances in your dog’s stool. Learning to recognize them can help you provide better information to your veterinarian.

Roundworms

Roundworms are among the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. They appear as light-colored, spaghetti-like strands in the stool, typically 3-5 inches long. Puppies are particularly susceptible to roundworm infections, which can be transmitted from mother to puppy before birth or through nursing. Adult dogs may contract roundworms through contact with contaminated soil or by ingesting infected rodents.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms have a distinctive appearance, showing up as small, white, rice-like segments in feces or around your dog’s rear end. These segments may move when fresh or dry into something resembling sesame seeds. Dogs typically acquire tapeworms by ingesting infected fleas during grooming or by consuming infected rodents or other animals.

Hookworms

While hookworms themselves are rarely visible to the naked eye, their presence might be indicated by dark, tarry stools due to intestinal bleeding they cause. These parasites attach to the intestinal lining and feed on blood, potentially causing anemia, especially in puppies or smaller dogs.

Whipworms

Whipworms are also difficult to spot with the naked eye. Their presence is usually suspected based on symptoms rather than visual identification in stool. Chronic whipworm infections may cause weight loss, chronic diarrhea (sometimes with blood), and general poor condition.

Immediate Steps to Take

Discovering worms requires prompt but measured action:

1. Collect a Stool Sample

When you notice worms, collect a fresh sample for your veterinarian. Use a clean, sealable plastic bag or a container provided by your vet’s office. The fresher the sample, the more accurate the testing will be, so try to bring it to your vet within 24 hours.

2. Contact Your Veterinarian

Call your veterinary office promptly to schedule an appointment. Share what you’ve observed, including the appearance of the worms and any symptoms your dog is exhibiting, such as diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or changes in appetite.

3. Follow Hygiene Precautions

Some intestinal parasites can be transmitted to humans (these are called zoonotic parasites). Practice strict hygiene after handling your dog or cleaning up waste:
– Wear disposable gloves when cleaning up feces
– Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water
– Clean and disinfect areas where your dog has eliminated
– Keep children away from areas where the dog has defecated

4. Isolate Vulnerable Pets

If you have multiple pets, especially puppies or elderly dogs with weakened immune systems, try to keep them separate until the infected dog has begun treatment. This helps reduce the risk of transmission within your household.

Veterinary Treatment

Your veterinarian will be your best resource for addressing a parasite infection:

Diagnostic Testing

Veterinarians typically perform a fecal flotation test to identify the specific parasite affecting your dog. This test involves mixing the stool sample with a special solution that causes eggs and some parasites to float to the surface where they can be collected and identified under a microscope.

Deworming Medications

Based on the type of parasite identified, your veterinarian will prescribe appropriate deworming medication. These medications work by either paralyzed or killing the parasites so they can be eliminated from your dog’s system. Common treatments include:

– Pyrantel pamoate for roundworms and hookworms
– Praziquantel for tapeworms
– Fenbendazole for multiple types of worms including whipworms
– Milbemycin oxime as part of broader parasite control programs

Follow-up Care

Your veterinarian will likely recommend follow-up fecal testing to ensure the infection has been completely cleared. Some parasites require multiple treatments spaced weeks apart to eliminate all life stages of the parasites.

Diet and Digestive Support

Supporting your dog’s digestive system during and after parasite treatment can help speed recovery:

Easily Digestible Diet

During treatment, some veterinarians recommend feeding a bland, easily digestible diet. This might include:
– Boiled chicken and rice
– Specialized veterinary gastrointestinal diets
– Small, frequent meals rather than large ones

Probiotics for Dogs

Probiotic supplements designed specifically for dogs may help restore beneficial gut bacteria disrupted by parasites or deworming medications. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations appropriate for your dog’s specific needs.

Adequate Hydration

Ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water, especially if they’ve experienced diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing future parasite infections involves a multi-faceted approach:

Regular Deworming Schedule

Many veterinarians recommend routine deworming treatments, especially for:
– Puppies starting at 2-3 weeks of age
– Adult dogs based on lifestyle and risk factors
– Dogs in multi-pet households or those who frequent dog parks

Year-Round Parasite Prevention

Many monthly heartworm preventatives also control various intestinal parasites. These preventatives are typically recommended year-round, even in seasonal climates.

Environmental Management

Reduce environmental contamination and re-infection risk by:
– Promptly removing feces from your yard, dog run, or walking areas
– Cleaning bedding regularly
– Controlling flea populations (necessary for preventing certain tapeworms)
– Preventing access to garbage and rodents that might carry parasites

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Scheduled wellness exams typically include fecal testing, which can detect parasites before they cause visible symptoms or appear in stool.

When to Be Concerned

While finding worms in your dog’s stool requires attention, certain situations warrant more immediate veterinary care:

Watch for Warning Signs

Seek prompt veterinary care if you notice:
– Bloody diarrhea
– Significant lethargy or weakness
– Vomiting
– Distended abdomen, especially in puppies
– Pale gums (possible sign of anemia from blood-feeding parasites)
– Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite

Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Young puppies and elderly dogs may experience more severe effects from parasite infections due to their developing or declining immune systems. These pets may require more aggressive treatment approaches and closer monitoring.

Conclusion

Finding worms in your dog’s stool can be concerning, but with prompt veterinary attention and appropriate treatment, most dogs recover completely. Maintaining a regular parasite prevention program is the best way to protect your dog from future infections. Remember that intestinal parasites are a common canine health issue that’s typically straightforward to address with proper veterinary care.

If you notice worms in dog poop, don’t panic, but do take action. By working closely with your veterinarian and following prevention protocols, you can ensure your dog maintains optimal digestive health and overall wellbeing for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I treat my dog for worms without seeing a vet?

While over-the-counter dewormers exist, it’s strongly recommended to consult a veterinarian before treatment. Different parasites require different medications, and incorrect treatment may be ineffective or potentially harmful. A veterinarian can identify the specific parasite and prescribe the most effective treatment.

How long after deworming will the worms be gone?

Most dewormers begin working within hours, but complete elimination of the parasites can take several days to weeks depending on the type of worm and severity of infection. Some parasites require multiple treatments to address different life stages. Your veterinarian will advise on the expected timeline for your dog’s specific situation.

Can I get worms from my dog?

Yes, some dog intestinal parasites can infect humans (zoonotic parasites). Roundworms and hookworms pose the greatest risk, particularly to children. Practice good hygiene by washing hands after handling your dog or cleaning up waste, promptly removing feces from the environment, and regular veterinary parasite screening for your pet.

Why does my dog keep getting worms despite regular treatment?

Recurring parasite infections may result from environmental reinfection, inadequate treatment frequency, or exposure to sources like contaminated soil, prey animals, or other infected dogs. Your veterinarian can help identify the source and recommend adjustments to your prevention strategy.