Overview of Tapeworms in Dogs
What are Tapeworms?
Tapeworms are a type of parasite that commonly infect dogs. As a parasite, Tapeworms usually live by consuming materials and nutrients that pass by their parasitic location inside a dog (which is usually located inside the intestines or stomach). Though not initially life-threatening to a dog, it is possible for symptoms such as malnutrition and intestinal blockage (by the worm or worm segments) to occur in more advanced cases. Though it is possible for a dog to have no intitial health effects when infected with Tapeworms, it's still extremely important to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your dog to be affected by this medical condition.
What types of dogs can be infected by Tapeworms?
Tapeworms are considered to be a parasitic organism, and as such, do not discriminate against certain types of dogs (specific to breed, age, etc). However, due to the variation of the intermediate hosts for each different species of Tapeworm, it is possible for dogs that are living in a specific location to have a higher likelihood of being infected with certain types of Tapeworms.
For example, a dog primarily becomes infected with the Tapeworm species of D. Laturn by consuming fish that are infected as an intermediate host. This makes the occurrences of infection by the D. Laturn tapeworm much more frequent in areas such as the Great Lakes, as well as the Arctic area. Though there are many species of Tapeworms that may infect dogs, it is possible for other animals to become infected with certain Tapeworm species. Tapeworms are able to produce zoonotic infections (which defines a condition that is shared by both humans and certain animals). Aside from dogs, Tapeworms may infect cats, humans, bears, and many other mammals.
How are Tapeworms transmitted?
The primary method of transmission of a Tapeworm infection is by the consumption of an infected intermediate host (an organism which harbors the immature form of a Tapeworm), or by ingestion of Tapeworm eggs from the fecal material of another animal. Since some of the more common species of Tapeworm are transmitted by ingestion of fleas, it's very important to take the proper precautions in preventing a flea infestation in your home. Dogs may ingest fleas harboring an immature Tapeworm larvae, which will cause an adult worm to develop in your dog's digestive system.