Whipworms
Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) are intestinal parasites that we often find in dogs. They are shaped like a whip and they are typically 5 to 7 cm long. They live and reproduce in the dog’s large intestine and in the caecum. Females lay microscopic eggs that are released through the stools and contaminate the soil. Dogs usually get infected when they swallow the eggs from the ground.
How do whipworms affect your dog? If your dog has a good immune system and only has a few worms he may present very little symptoms. On the other hand, if the dog is highly infected, there could be diarrhea with blood in it. Young dogs are also more vulnerable.
A fecal analysis is a test that veterinarians recommend on a regular basis and will confirm such an infection. Whipworms are a parasite that are easy to treat with a basic deworming treatment. Your family veterinarian can discuss options and make recommendations.