DogsVitalSigns

Dogs can pick up tapeworms by biting at or swallowing fleas.  They can also catch the parasite by eating gophers which can carry the infectious form.  Human infestation from tapeworms, although uncommon, can occur when we eat undercooked beef or pork infected from the organism.  There is one type of tapeworm that can pose a treat to humans.  This organism is the only variety of tapeworm that causes illness to both animals and people.  The illness caused from this type of tapeworm is called Hydatid Disease.

This type of tapeworm can be found in the uncooked innards of cattle and sheep.  The adult version of this parasite is relatively short, about five millimeters in length compared to the other type of tapeworm that occurs only in dogs which grows an average of one and a half feet in length.

This disease does not show any sign or symptom.  Your vet will check the presence of this type of tapeworm by examining a stool specimen.  Your vet will also prescribe treatment if the parasite is detected.

In order to prevent catching this type of disease, never feed your dog uncooked meat.  Also, keep your children away from untreated dogs, especially rural dogs who usually pick up the worm through contact with the remains of dead livestock...