Most dogs with Hookworms will display several key symptoms. However, most of the symptoms of hookworms are relatively general, and are not specifically unique to a hookworm infestation. As a result, it is important to schedule a veterinary checkup as soon as your dog begins to display any adverse health-related symptoms, so that a proper diagnosis can be obtained.
Though this is not always the case, it is possible for a dog with hookworms to begin coughing incessantly. The reason for this symptom is that hookworms will occasionally travel into a dog's lungs (instead of remaining attached to the intestinal area). It is possible for a dog with hookworms to have serious complications, if the hookworms migrate into the lungs.
In any case, severe coughing is an indication that something is wrong, so it's advised to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
Hookworms get their primary source of sustenance from a dog's blood. As a result, a dog with a serious hookworm infestation will most likely develop anemia. A dog with anemia will most likely display several secondary symptoms, including lethargy, depression, and a pale, yellowish tint to the mucous membranes. There are other medical conditions that will also cause a dog to display anemic symptoms, so it's always important to seek the advice of a veterinarian immediately.
Most dogs with a hookworm infestation will display gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting. This is because hookworms, like many other parasites, have negative effects on a dog's gastrointestinal tract. Since gastrointestinal symptoms are seen in dogs with other medical conditions, this symptom is not unique to a hookworm infection. However, it is possible that constant diarrhea and vomiting will have potentially serious effects on your dog's heath, if not attended to immediately.
Hookworms are commonly seen in puppies, where the effects of malnutrition are much more noticable. In puppies, stunted, slow growth is a sure sign that they are suffering from malnutrition, possibly from a hookworm infestation. In adult dogs, the effects of malnutrition may take slightly longer to be displayed. Malnutrition can cause other secondary symptoms, such as weight loss, lethargy, hair loss, dull fur and distended abdomen. Malnutrition, in severe cases, can cause other serious complications.
If your dog seems to be displaying any of the symptoms of malnutrition, it is very important that you seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Next Article: Diagnosis Of Dog Hookworms