What parasites can i get from my dog

Always wash your hands after handling dog or cat poo. Tapeworms are segmented worms that live in the intestine. Dogs and cats can become infected with tapeworms by swallowing infected fleas, while hunting or scavenging, or when eating uncooked meat or offal. Symptoms of flea tapeworm infection in dogs include an itchy bottom, vomiting and diarrhoea. Humans can also be infected with the flea tapeworm if they accidentally consume an infected flea e.

Any parasitic infection can cause inflammation and immune-system issues. If your pet has another medical condition, such as diabetes, the parasitic infection may make it worse. All these parasites can shut down major body systems if the infestation goes unchecked, and be life-threatening. Intestinal parasites are contagious to other animals and humans. Because they primarily inhabit the GI tract, larvae, or eggs, are passed in the feces. The infective larvae then inhabit the soil around the feces, leaving other dogs, and children, vulnerable to accidental ingestion and subsequent infection.

Roundworm-infected puppies and kittens often have a pot-bellied appearance. Because most parasites produce only eggs, you cannot rely on seeing any worms to know your pet is infected.

They can also become infected from eating small mammals. Hookworms can also affect people. If we walk across a contaminated area in bare feet, the microscopic, infective worm stages can burrow into our skin and cause irritation and itching. Wear shoes whenever walking on damp sand or soil to reduce the risk of a hookworm infection.

Pet owners can choose from a range of worming products for their dog or cat , including spot-on treatments and tablets. Deworming products kill the parasite inside your pet, which then passes with their stool. Deworming your pet helps protect them from further damage and discomfort caused by worms. Your vet can help you find the right product for your pet and also set up a regular deworming schedule to help protect them in the future. Create Account Sign in.

Intestinal Worms. Our Products. Here are four common zoonotic parasites: Tapeworms — Tapeworms must pass through fleas to continue their life cycle. They can infect people who touch their pet who has fleas and then eat without washing their hands. Small children, who put most things in their mouths, are at highest risk for developing a tapeworm infection. Roundworms — Roundworms live in the intestines of cats, dogs, and many wildlife species.