Worming
Roundworms may cause illness in humans and
dogs. Puppies are infected by their mother;
the worms live in the gut and shed eggs in the feces (or
excrement). Soil contaminated by
feces becomes a source of infection for both people and
dogs. Puppies need worming
fortnightly until 12 weeks old. Adult dogs should be wormed
four times a year, when they
are pregnant (check that the product is suitable) or feeding
pups. All females should be
wormed 30 days after a season. Tapeworms,
hookworms and whipworms are less of a health threat but
treatment should
be given twice yearly. Some tapeworms – which look like
grains of rice in the feces – are
caught from fleas, so flea treatment is also necessary. A
single tablet to treat all worms
can be purchased at the vet. In the case of pet shop
products, check you are giving the
correct dose for your dog’s body weight and check which type
of worm is controlled by
each treatment. Anal Glands
The anal glands are two scent-producing sacs
that scent the feces as they are passed. Sometimes they do
not empty properly and can cause irritation of the bottom,
which makes your pet lick this area a lot or “scoot” his
bottom along the ground. Many people think this is a sign of
worms, it isn't.
The glands do not need routine attention but
if there is irritation, see your vet. |
