Shih Tzu – Common Parasites In Dogs

Some common parasites affecting shih tzu and dogs in general
are: Chiggers, coccidiosis, fleas, flies, giardia, heartworm,
hookworms, lice and mange.

There are three basic forms of parasitism: Internal organs,
blood and skin. The geographical region in which you live will
determine which parasites can affect your shih tzu.

Worms are a common parasitic infestation and one cause of
diarrhea. The presence of diarrhea, however, does not mean a
definitive diagnosis of “worms.” Definite diagnosis is made by a
veterinarian, under microscopic examination, of a fresh fecal or
blood sample. Only a veterinarian who has made the determination
of the type of parasitic infestation should prescribe
medications to treat the infestation.

Chiggers affect man and dogs and are prevalent in southern U.S.
Areas. Eradication if chiggers is generally best achieved by
manual removal. Prevention is somewhat effective if you will
limit your shih tzu to manicured grass.

Coccidiosis cause an enteritis condition of cats and dogs.
Coccidiosis is most common in puppies and kittens. Symptoms are
mild to severe bloody diarrhea, lethargy and weakness from
dehabilitation of nutrients caused by the diarrhea, anorexia and
death if not treated. Coccidiosis is seldom fatal when treated
with the proper medication by the veterinarian who diagnoses the
parasite in a timely manner. Coccidiosis is always present among
canines. Some canines become carriers and have no symptoms
themselves. Excessive stress can cause symptom producing
coccidia in very young puppies and kittens that can become life
threatening if not treated properly.

Fleas are most common to dogs of any breed including the shih
tzu. Fleas constantly bite and can produce allergic reactions in
some shih tzu or any breed of dog. A sensitive dog will scratch
and chew to relieve the itch, only to produce a “hotspot” or
some other type of skin dermatitis which can lead to a secondary
infection.. Fleas can also act as temporary hosts in tapeworms’
life cycles. A dog can acquire a tapeworm as it chews and ingest
the fleas. Tapeworms can be effectively treated by your vet. The
best protocol is to avoid fleas altogether. Flea control is
comparatively easy through a wide selectin of products including
soaps, shampoos, sprays, powders, dips, natural and herbal
treatments.

Giardia is usually found around remote bodies of water. It can
occur in dogs or shih tzu of any age and can be transferred to
humans. Onset is usually sudden. Symptoms are diarrhea,
lethargy, lack of appetite and weight loss. Diagnosis is made by
fecal microscopic examination. Resolution is successful provided
treatment is initiated early.

Heartworm occurs in two forms throughout the lower forty-eight
states. One is harmless, the other if left untreated is deadly.
The heartworm is carried by mosquito bites. Diagnosis is made
through a blood test. Regular prophylactic treatment is
available and highly recommended.

Hookworms are found primarily in the southern portions of the
United States. Infection may also be transferred to puppies from
the mother’s milk. For this reason, all newborn puppies need to
be regularly dewormed starting at 2 weeks of age up until at
least 12 weeks of age following the recommendations and schedule
of your own personal vet. There are a variety of dewormers
available that completely eradicate the problem of hookworms.

Mange occurs in one of two forms: Demodex or Sarcoptes. Positive
diagnosis can be made only by a veterinarian under microscopic
examination of skin samples taken from an affected area. If
treated early, mange can be completely cured. Treatment is
usually by therapeutic shampoor or dips once a week for several
weeks. Prevention of the mite infestations that can cause
Sarcoptes mange is recommended. Ask your vet for appropriate
mange mite medication to prevent the disease. The same mites
that cause mange in dogs and shih tzu can cause ear mites and
ear infections.