Dog Not Feeling Well? 4 Signs That Worms Are Involved

If your dog spends a lot of time outside around other dogs, they could be at risk for worms. Larvae and worms get carried around in the intestinal tract. When dogs defecate, they can deposit those worms and larvae in the soil and in their waste. If your dog comes in contact with the soil or defecation, they can ingest the worms. If your dog does get worms, they need to get veterinary care as soon as possible. If you're not sure how to identify worms, read the list provided below. If your dog develops any of the symptoms described here, seek veterinary care right away. 

Your Dog Has Been Vomiting

If your dog has been vomiting, they may have an upset stomach. Switch them to a bland diet for a day or two, to see if the vomiting resolves itself. If it doesn't, you should take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as you can. Your dog may have worms. It's not uncommon for worms to cause dogs to vomit. With proper treatment, your dog should feel better soon. 

Your Dog Has Diarrhea

If your dog has diarrhea, try to keep them well-hydrated. Uncontrolled diarrhea can leave your dog dehydrated. To avoid that, try offering your dog plenty of fresh water. Also, watch your dog's stools. If you can see blood in your dog's stools, or you see worms, visit a veterinarian immediately. There's a good chance that your dog has worms. The faster treatment begins, the faster your dog will heal. 

Your Dog's Losing Weight

If your dog has been losing weight, track their appetite for a couple of days. If they're still eating the same amount, it's time to take them to the veterinarian. Worms can cause your dog to lose weight quite quickly. This is especially true with regards to tapeworms, and whipworms. Proper veterinary care will help get rid of the worms. 

Your Dog Has Bloating

If your dog's belly looks bloated, try a gentle pat. If your dog's belly is also tender, they may need to get treated for worms. Tapeworms can cause abdominal bloating and tenderness. With proper treatment, the problem should resolve itself. 

Your Dog is Coughing

If your dog has developed a chronic cough, now's the time to seek veterinary care. Chronic coughing can occur for a few reasons. Two of those reasons include kennel cough and heartworm. If your dog hasn't been in a kennel lately, they probably don't have kennel cough. That means there's a good chance that they've picked up heartworm. If that's the case, they need veterinary care right away.

For additional information, contact a veterinarian service in your area such as Graceful Animal Hospital.