At what age do dogs get toxocariasis? - briefly
Dogs can contract toxocariasis as early as a few weeks old, often through ingestion of infected milk from their mother or contaminated environments. Puppies are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune systems.
At what age do dogs get toxocariasis? - in detail
Toxocariasis, caused by the parasitic roundworm Toxocara canis, is a common condition in dogs, particularly affecting puppies. The disease is most prevalent in young dogs, typically those under six months of age, due to their immature immune systems and higher susceptibility to infection. Puppies can contract toxocariasis in several ways, including transplacental transmission from an infected mother, ingestion of contaminated soil or feces containing Toxocara eggs, or through nursing if the mother's milk contains larvae. In transplacental transmission, the larvae migrate from the mother’s tissues to the developing fetuses, leading to infection before birth. After birth, puppies may ingest Toxocara eggs from their environment, which hatch into larvae in the intestines and migrate through the body, causing tissue damage and symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and a pot-bellied appearance. While older dogs can also become infected, they are less likely to show severe symptoms due to their developed immune systems. However, they can still act as carriers, shedding eggs in their feces and contributing to environmental contamination. Regular deworming of both puppies and adult dogs, along with maintaining proper hygiene, is crucial in preventing the spread of toxocariasis. Early intervention and veterinary care are essential to manage the condition effectively and minimize its impact on a dog’s health.