We’ve all heard about dogs with “worms” or remember our dog as a puppy coughing up or pooping out a white stringy thing. Eeeeeeew! It’s usually not something that dog owners think about often, but should you? The answer is yes. The first and most important reason is that some intestinal parasites, specifically Roundworms, and Hookworms, can be passed to humans. This is not something that is extremely common, but it does happen and children are especially susceptible. That is because kids immune systems are still immature and they tend to put a lot (toys, fingers, dirt, etc.) in their mouths.
Humans become infected with Roundworms by ingesting soil or anything that contains Roundworm eggs which are passed in infected animals stool. Once eggs are ingested, larvae hatch and travel from the human intestines to different parts of the body. They could go to the liver, lungs, heart or even brain causing inflammation and damage. It is also common for them to travel to the eye, especially in children and if not caught early or properly diagnosed, can cause blindness. For Hookworms, an infection can occur by simply walking barefoot in grass or soil. The tiny larvae burrow into the skin and cause what is sometimes called “plumbers itch”, but is really cutaneous larval migrans. Basically, the parasite is made to infect dogs and cats. When it is picked up by a human, which is not the usual host, the larvae or immature worms wander around in the skin, not knowing where to go or what to do. This creates skin irritation. It is common on the feet, hands or arms, anywhere that could have become in contact with soil.
All pets are at risk. Anytime a pet goes outside, they can be exposed to the stool and possible parasites from wildlife, stray animals or other pets. How many times do you take your dog for a walk or a dog park and see a place where an owner has failed to clean up after their pet? Do you see raccoons in your backyard? Coyotes? All of these things put your pet at risk. Dogs always have their nose down in the soil or are eating grass or something else they found on the ground. Simply walking outside can expose them too. They can pick up something on their feet and then lick it off later. Prevention is key. Giving your dog his or her monthly “heartworm” pill all year round helps keep your pet parasite free. Even though we call them heartworm pills, they often protect against more than just heartworm. Sentinel, the preventative that we recommend, also protects again Roundworms, Hookworms and Whipworms. Checking a stool sample yearly is also essential. Preventatives are great, but there are worms and other parasites that they don’t cover. Finally, practice good hygiene (washing your hands) will reduce your risk of becoming infected and help keep the whole family healthy.