Hookworms
By Dr Steve Surujbally
Continued from last week
Supportive
treatment
It is logical that the treatment of hookworm infestation should mirror the symptoms of the disease, in addition to concentrating on the eradication of the ‘perp.’ (You see how American-isms can invade even science. Either that or I am seeing too many detective movies. ‘perp’ means ‘perpetrator’ – and, in this case, the agent of destruction is the hookworm.)
You remember me saying in the last article (Pet Corner, May 11, 2008) that hookworms are voracious bloodsuckers. In addition, there is usually massive blood loss during the diarrhoea espisode. This means that if there has been a great haemorrhaging, then a blood transfusion might be indicated. You and your veterinarian will discuss the matter and come to a decision.
As supportive therapy, blood-building foods and special diets containing iron are indicated. Iron injection / tablets may be prescribed.
While all of this is going on, we have got to arrest the bleeding and the diarrhoea. There is not much that you can do at home. Bloody diarrhoea is always a serious matter. Conse-quently, the panic button must be pushed. Call your vet the moment you see blood (even traces) in the animal’s stool.
Last week, we spoke of debilitation and listlessness and emaciation as being symptoms of a hookworm infestation. As part of the supportive treatment, it is imperative that vitamins metabolic and appetite stimulants, appropriate/balanced carbohydrate/fat/protein diets be introduced to counteract the general unthriftiness of the animal.