Tapeworms look like little white rice segments. Dogs normally get tapeworms from fleas, but can also get them from eating feces or being exposed to feces with tapeworms in it. He wouldn't have gotten them just today and already have segments in his poop. A tapeworm is actually one long worm that attaches itself in the intestines - it can grow several feet in length if left long enough (in people and larger dogs anyway). The little pieces you see are segments of the tapeworm. The big tapeworm is made up of segments and the segments break off to become their own little tapeworms. They can be easily cleared up with a pill now and one again in three weeks. There isn't really a preventative for tapeworms that I know of - all the other preventatives and intestinal dewormers don't usually take care of tapeworms. You have to get a special pill to kill the tapeworms.
__________________ ~Magnifique Yorkies~
Purchasing from backyard breeders, pet shops, and puppymills perpetuates the suffering of other dogs.
Educate yourself and buy from reputable breeders or rescue. |