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"Dog Parasites (flea, Tick, Worms, Etc.)"
Dog Parasites (Flea, Tick, Worms, etc.): Page 22
of 26
Tapeworm Hydatid Disease
Dogs can pick up tapeworms by biting at or swallowing fleas. They can
also catch the parasite by eating gophers which can carry the
infectious form. Human infestation from tapeworms, although uncommon,
can occur when we eat undercooked beef or pork infected from the
organism. There is one type of tapeworm that can pose a treat to
humans. This organism is the only variety of tapeworm that causes
illness to both animals and people. The illness caused from this type
of tapeworm is called Hydatid Disease.
This type of tapeworm can be found in the uncooked innards of cattle
and sheep. The adult version of this parasite is relatively short,
about five millimeters in length compared to the other type of
tapeworm that occurs only in dogs which grows an average of one and a
half feet in length.
This disease does not show any sign or symptom. Your vet will check
the presence of this type of tapeworm by examining a stool specimen.
Your vet will also prescribe treatment if the parasite is detected.
In order to prevent catching this type of disease, never feed your dog
uncooked meat. Also, keep your children away from untreated dogs,
especially rural dogs who usually pick up the worm through contact
with the remains of dead livestock.
Copyright 2006 by Jay Jennings. All rights reserved.
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