Hookworms are a widespread source of illness in dogs, most commonly contracted by eating the feces of infected animals or food contaminated with the parasite. The worms are able to invade the skin through direct contact, causing severe itching and rash. Hookworms make their way to the digestive tract and feed by latching on to the wall of the small intestine and sucking the animal’s blood. Due to their highly mobile nature, they can burrow through nearly any tissue and can be found throughout the body, causing complications and discomfort. Adult dogs may harbor worms without any symptoms, as their fully developed immune system can suppress the parasites to the degree that they are unable to cause clinical harm. However, these dogs often pass the worms on to puppies, who are more seriously affected. Evidence of hookworm infection in young dogs can include anemia, tarry stools, weakness, and weight loss. See the veterinarian immediately if your puppy presents with these signs, or you suspect your adult dog has acquired hookworms.

Owners who notice gastrointestinal distress in their puppy, weight loss or lethargic behavior should contact a veterinarian immediately. If the dog in question is older, symptoms may be intermittent or very mild. If there is any doubt, a stool sample can be taken to your veterinarians office for evaluation.

A veterinarian will place a drop of water on a sample of your dog’s feces and examine it with a microscope. The eggs will float to the surface of the water and be easily detected. Occasionally, a puppy may become seriously ill before passing any eggs. This usually occurs when the mother is infected, and passes the parasite to her offspring through her milk. Secondary infections are of concern at this young age, and the worms are usually discovered after the death of the puppy.

The primary treatment for hookworms is an antiparisitic, usually fenbendazole, moxidectin, or pyrantel. This treatment is administered orally for around 2-3 weeks. Other treatment that may be given includes IV fluids and electrolytes if the dog is weak, and iron supplements for anemia.

If caught early, it usually takes around 3-5 days for symptoms to resolve following medication, and a few weeks to completely eliminate the worms. In more serious cases, recovery will involve correcting and monitoring the peripheral symptoms that result from the condition, such as anemia and weakness. As with all parasitic infections, prevention is the best approach - avoid allowing your pet to consume feces while on walks, and avoid the yards and homes of pets who have recently contracted hookworms. Wear gloves to clean up hookworm-contaminated materials, and see a doctor immediately if you notice skin irritation or gastrointestinal symptoms yourself. Ensure your dog is always up to date with their de-wormer and consider routine fecal exams.