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Home
> Aussie
Health > Worms
and Parasites > Hookworms
Hookworms
Even though hookworms are small, in enough numbers they still
pose a serious health threat
Hookworms
are a common parasitic worm (nemotode). Various species
infect many mammals including dogs, cats and humans. The four
main hook worm species that affect dogs are Ancylostoma caninum,
Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, and Uncinaria
stenocephala. As its name suggests A. caninum is the most prevalent
and causes the most serious symptoms in dogs.
Much smaller than many other worm species, hookworms are only
about 10 mm (3/8 inch) in length tapering at both ends. As a result
of their small size they don't cause the intestinal obstructions
that we see with larger worm species.
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Centers for Disease Control |
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Hookworms
(ancylostoma caninum)
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They are transmitted through ingestion of larvae from contaminated
areas. The larvae can also burrow into the skin.
Puppies can be infected via their mothers milk. Some vets believe
it can be passed from mother to fetal puppy during pregnancy,
however, there is some controversy regarding this route of transmission.
Regardless of how hookworm larvae enter the body, once there
they make their way into the intestines they mature into adults.
In the intestines they cling to the walls and, in true parasitic
form, gorge themselves on blood that they suck from their host.
This loss of blood, and iron, results in anemia. Symptoms include
pale skin colour, weakness, black tarry stools, bloody diahrrea
and weight loss. This can lead to death, especially in puppies.
Where humans come into contact with hookworm larvae skin sores
and inflammation occur as they penetrate the skin and migrate
until they eventually die.
Preventative treatments are available for hookworm. Fecal samples
can be tested for the presence of eggs. See your vet if you see
signs of hook worm infection.
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Karen Chase of
Konawa, OK sent in this pic of Gator Lee.
Says Karen, "He is so smart and so beautiful
and I love him more than anything. He can learn and
do anything I try and teach him. He amazes me daily."
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