What are the common types of parasites that dogs can get?
Dogs get both internal and external parasites. The more common internal ones you've probably heard of are heartworms, and intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia. External parasites include fleas, ticks, and mites.
How can you tell if your dog has internal parasites?
Most of the time, you don't know that your dog has an internal parasite. Occasionally, they can have upset stomach signs, or you may see one in their stool, but most of the time, you won't see any signs.
What are the signs of external parasites?
Signs of external parasites include itching, skin rashes, and hair loss.
How are parasites treated in dogs?
Each parasite has its own type of treatment. There are general dewormers that will typically address multiple intestinal parasites at once, but certain intestinal parasites like Giardia or coccidia need their own separate medicine. For external parasites, you can either use a topical medication or a pill that's given once a month to treat and then also prevent.
Can humans get dog parasites?
Humans can get dog parasites, but it is pretty rare for that to happen, so that's the good news. However, if your pet has recently been diagnosed with a parasite, ask your veterinarian if it is one of those rare ones that can be transmitted to humans. If so, you'll want to talk to your own doctor about that.
Are there any effective home remedies for treating dog parasites?
There are no good home remedies that have been effective at treating parasites. I've heard people try using essential oils, garlic, or onion. Unfortunately, not only do these not work to kill the parasites, but they also can be harmful to pets. You definitely want to ask your veterinarian for the best medication for whichever parasite your pet has been diagnosed with.
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