ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, September 15, 1996 TAG: 9609160088
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-10 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
COLUMN: Claws & Paws
SOURCE: JILL BOWEN
Q: I recently got a new puppy, which my son found in a dumpster in Richmond. Its tummy seems to be swollen all the time, not just after eating. My friend said he might have worms. Is this likely? What do I do?
A: I think your friend is correct. The most likely cause of your puppy's swollen tummy is worms. Other signs of worms are a dull and lifeless coat. As well as digestive upsets, the puppy may well show a failure to thrive.
Take your puppy to your local veterinarian who should give him a thorough physical examination. This should include a simple fecal test to check for the presence and type of worms. A thorough checkup will save you money in the end by nipping health problems in the bud. The vet will be able to advise you on the correct food for your new pet, which could help correct bouts of diarrhea.
In addition the vet will start a vaccination program for your new-found stray, as well as advising you on the desirability of spaying or castration.
Obviously, you do not know any of the history of your new arrival, nor how old he is. Normally puppies are dosed for both roundworms and hookworms when they are 2-, 4-, 6- and 8-weeks of age. Puppies are often infected with these two species of worms, either prior to birth from their mother, or shortly after birth.
This is why it is so important to regularly deworm pregnant dogs.
Ask your veterinarian for the correct worming treatment for very young animals rather than relying on a product from the grocery store shelf. Most pet owners are not aware that these intestinal worms can infect people. This is especially true of children, who are more inclined to put their fingers in their mouths after handling their pet than adults. Make sure children always wash their hands after handling a puppy.
Also, do not let the puppy lick the children's faces, as it is possible for worm eggs to be transferred in this way. Until your puppy has had his series of vaccinations, do not take him out in the street or anywhere else where he would meet other dogs as this is where he could pick up deadly diseases like parvo and distemper. He will not be fully protected until he has finished all his shots.
If you have a question for Jill Bowen, please write to her in care of the New River Current, P.O. Box 540, Christiansburg, Va. 24073 or send e-mail to newriver@infi.net.
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