Description of Whipworms ( Trichuris vulpis )
It is not surprising that Whipworms are often referred to in two separate words as in Whip Worms because the description of these parasites is that they look like a stock whip. These types of worms are called Trichuris vulpis. Whipworms measure between 1.75 to 3 inches long and live in the dog's large intestine and lives off the blood of the dog. There are many different types of dog and puppy parasites and most puppies are born infested with the 'worms'. The generic term "worms" is usually used to describe Roundworms - the most common of all the canine worms.
Internal Worms - live off the dogs
Worms, including the Whipworm are the common name for Canine parasites which exist internally and externally. As internal parasites they live off the puppy or dog robbing them of vital nutrients needed to stay healthy. Left untreated, intestinal parasites will stunt the growth and weaken young puppies. External parasites eggs or larvae are shed into the environment via feces and infect other dogs.
Transmission of Worms including Whipworms
There are several species of whipworms and they are transmitted eating infective eggs or larvae which live in the soil or in small rodents. They can only be detected by investigating a stool sample.
Symptoms of Whipworms
The symptoms of Whipworms are not always apparent but can include the following:
Anaemia
Weight loss
Apathy
Dehydration
Diarrhea
Dogs susceptible to Whipworms
Dogs are susceptible to worms, including Whipworms, at all ages of dogs but the greatest frequency is found in puppies. These particularly refer to the Tapeworms and the Roundworms. Worms are typically found in babies and puppies, whilst tapeworms are more common in older dogs.
Different Types of Worms
There are several types of parasites, or worms, which affect pets and are as follows:
Roundworms also referred to as Round worms - (Called Ascarids)
Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis)
Tapeworms also referred to as Tape worms (Dipylidium caninum)
Hookworms also referred to as Hook worms (Ancylostoma caninum)
About This Advice
We hope that this information about Canine Whipworms has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are in doubt about your Dog's Health you should consult your vet or other suitably qualified expert.
You can find details and contact information for any UK vet here
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