FOUR PAWS VETERINARY HOSPITAL
8401 Ranch Road 12 San Marcos, TX * Phone: (512) 396-7297 * Fax: (512) 392-7297
CANINE WHIPWORMS
  • What are whipworms?
Whipworms are intestinal parasites which are about 1/4 inch (6
mm) long. They live in the cecum and colon of dogs where they
cause severe irritation to the lining of those organs. This results in
watery, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and general debilitation.
They are one of the most pathogenic worms found in dogs.

  • How did my dog get whipworms?
Whipworms pass microscopic eggs in the stool . The eggs are
very resistant to drying and heat, so they can remain viable in the
dog's environment for years. They mature and are able to reinfect
the dog in 10-60 days. The eggs are swallowed and return to the
lower intestinal tract to complete the life cycle.

  • How is whipworm infection diagnosed?
Whipworms are diagnosed by finding eggs with a microscopic
examination of the stool. However, multiple samples are often
required because these parasites pass small numbers of eggs on
an irregular basis. Any dog with chronic diarrhea can be
reasonably suspected to have whipworms, regardless of several
negative stool examination. It is an accepted practice to treat
chronic diarrhea by administering a whipworm dewormer.
Response to treatment is an indication that whipworms were
present but could not be detected on fecal examination.

  • How are whipworms treated?
There are several drugs that are very effective against
whipworms. Two treatments are needed at a 3-4 week interval,
but reinfection is such a problem, it is advisable to treat again
every 3-4 months or to put the dog on a heartworm prevention
product that contains an ingredient that prevents infection with
whipworms. Whipworms are not nearly as common today
because of widespread use of these heartworm prevention
products.

  • Can I get whipworms from my dog?
Whipworms are not infectious to people; there are parasites of
the dog.