Capillariasis is a parasite-related infection in dogs caused by tiny worms belonging to the Capillaria genus. The worms can target multiple organs and most likely affect either the intestines or the urinary tract. Capillariasis is not as well-known as some other infections, but this does not diminish the importance for dog owners to know about this infection because it can cause pain and distress if untreated.
Symptoms of Capillariasis in Dogs
Dog owners should be aware of signs that can indicate a capillariasis infection. The most common symptoms can change depending on the affected body parts:
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Common symptoms:
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Diarrhea or diarrhea-like stools
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Blood in urine or stool
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Frequent urination or painful urination
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Weight loss or poor appetite
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Lethargy or weakness
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More serious symptoms create a more urgent matter to consider veterinary intervention:
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Dry heaving or vomiting
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Abdominal pain
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Dehydration
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Trouble or inability to urinate
Causes and the Spread of Capillariasis
Capillariasis occurs as Capillaria worms live and thrive inside the dog. It will have a fairly typical lifecycle, which consists of:
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Eggs are presented: Infected dogs will pass the parasite eggs in feces (poop) or urine.
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Contamination: Eggs are often eaten or drunk from soil, water, or areas where the dog plays or explores.
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The dog picks up the infection by mistakenly putting these contaminated items into the dog's body, this can be soil, water, or even an earthworm or rodent that has already been infected.
Because the parasite eggs can remain in the environment for long periods, dogs that spend time outside or in a kennel setting are at a higher risk of capillariasis.
How is Capillariasis Diagnosed?
Veterinarians will diagnose capillariasis by:
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Sample Tests: They will test the dog's feces or urine under the microscope to find eggs larger than normal.
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Physical exam: May look for signs of symptoms and general health.
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Other tests: Sometimes, veterinary finds the blood tests or x-ray helpful to ascertain organ involvement.
The process is fairly simple and helps the veterinarian prescribe the appropriate treatment plan quickly.
What are the Treatment Options for Capillariasis?
The treatments will depend on the severity and location of the infection:
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Medications: Your veterinarian will prescribe anticryptosporidians (we're not referring to chemotherapy, use Adrian to do also use medication colors that helps in eliminating worms, fenbendazole and ivermectin are two, however there are many more).
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Supportive Care: In extreme cases, hydration fluids and any medications necessary to reduce distress (pain, vomiting).
Most treatment is usually successful with a short prompt start of beginning. If your dog has symptoms, avoidance of treatment or prolonged illness could have unintended complications.
Living with Capillariasis and Preventative Care
To reduce risk the dog companion owner should focus on management:
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Clean: Maintain well-kept living areas, indoor-outdoor spaces and beddings (Note: the clean areas will be better for any dog).
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Hygiene: Pick up your dog poop in a timely manner to avoid contaminating environmental exposure for you and other pets (Note: the cooler areas will be a better living environment for any dog)!
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Limit hunting: Decrease access and chances for your dog to hunt earthworms, rodents, foram, or other animals that host the parasites.
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Regular veterinary appointments: Schedule regular physical exams with stool & urine testing to find early capillariasis infection.
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Avoid stagnant water: Never let your dog in standing water unless completely supervised, then consider quickly removing it from the contaminated water.
The potential amount of risk can be reduced by utilizing these basic and simple action plans to protect and maintain your dog's health.
