So... what are Tapeworms?
Tapeworms are a parasite that are found in the small intestine of dogs. The most common tapeworm found in dogs is: Dipylidium Caninum. They are flat and segmented, white in color, and can grow upto 20cm long. They attach themselves to the dog's interstine by their hook like mouth.
These are the most common types of tapeworms that infect both dogs and cats:
- Diphyllobothrium latum
- Dipylidium Caninum
- Echinococcus Granulosus and E. Multiocularis
- Spirometra Mansonoides
- Taenia Species
How did my Cocker get Tapeworms?
- The Tapeworm cycle begins with the flea larvae eating fecal matter that contains Tapeworm eggs.
- The eggs hatch inside the flea and become what is called Cysticercoids.
- The dog then may swallow a flea that contains these Cysticercoids while chewing or biting at an itchy area on it's skin.
- Once the flea passes into the dog's intestine the flea is broken down and the cysticercoids develop into an adult Tapeworm.
- The Tapeworm attaches itself to the lining of the intestine and feeds off the nutrients as they are passed through.
- As the Tapeworm matures the tail segments drop off. These segments are mobile. Each segment contains eggs of the tapeworm. The egg packets are passed in the feces of the dog.
- The eggs are then ingested by the flea larvae.
The most common areas that Tapeworm eggs are found are in the dog's bedding and in your carpet. Dogs can also acquire tapeworms by eating infected rodents or lizards! Yuk!!
So How Do You Know if Your Cocker Has Tapeworms?
You can often see the dried secretions of tapeworm around the dogs anus. They resemble rice grains. Dogs will often scoot around on their bottom due to the irritation or itching. However, you may see the moving segments of tapeworm in the dogs feces. Your vet may also examine a smear from your dogs anus under a microscope to see if their's any sign of tapeworm.
If all else fails, and you are convinced your dog has tapeworm, you may also see your dog having severe weight loss, or is unable to gain weight, no matter how much you keep feeding them! It may take a while or be hard to visualize tapeworm in the feces or around the anus. Your best bet is to consult with your vet and/or start them on a round of meds which will be discussed below.
How Do I Treat Tapeworm?
Treatment is very simple and in most cases is extreemly effective. Your dog will be given a drug that kills tapeworm and doesn't cause side effects. Tapeworm tablets can be purchased from your vet.
How can I Prevent Tapeworms in my Cocker?
A regular de-worming regimine is important as well as effective flea control.
Can I or my Children Get Infected?
Humans can become infected with the tapeworm: Dipylidium Caninum but it is very rare. Tapeworm infection in humans is not usually spread by dogs. Infants and small children are more susceptible to catching worms from pets as they have immature immune systems and often poor hygiene. Humans can catch worms, so it is very important that you and your children practice good hygiene techniques, especially before eating!
Again! Catching worms from your Cocker, is not common, however you should be aware of the possibility!
ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN REGARDING THE PROPER TREATMENT FOR FOR YOUR COCKER SPANIEL!
