Dog - Whipworms

What are whipworms?

Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) are so called because adult worms have the appearance of a stockman's whip, with a thick posterior (rear) end tapering rapidly to a long thin front which embeds in the lining of the bowel.  These intestinal worms are about 6 cm (2½-3 ins) in length.  They live in the large intestine (caecum and colon) of dogs and can cause severe irritation to the lining of these organs.  This results in watery bloody diarrhoea, weight loss, and general debility.  They are one of the most harmful worms found in dogs but are relatively rare today due to the widespread and regular use of endoparasiticides (wormers).

How did my dog get whipworms?

The microscopic eggs are passed in the faeces.  The eggs are very resistant to drying and heat, and can remain viable in the dog's environment for years.  Depending on temperature the eggs mature and are able to reinfect the dog in 10-60 days.  The eggs are swallowed and return to the lower intestinal tract to complete the life cycle.

How is whipworm infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis depends on laboratory examination of faeces.  Multiple samples are often required because adult worms pass small numbers of eggs on an irregular basis.  If the dog is showing the appropriate signs (see above) and whipworms have not been confirmed on laboratory examination of faeces (with a dog that has not been regularly wormed) the use of an appropriate wormer is recommended.  Response to treatment is an indication that whipworms were present but could not be detected on faecal examination.

What is the treatment?

Today there are several very safe drugs that are effective against whipworms.  Two treatments are usually advised, 3-4 weeks apart.  Due to the problem of reinfection it is advisable to repeat the worming every 3-4 months.

Can I get whipworms from my dog?

Problems due to whipworm in man are caused by an entirely different worm, Trichuris trichiuria.