Tapeworm segments appear as short, white, pink, or brownish worms passed out in stools and/or moving on the surface of the hair near the anus. When dead, they may also appear as small yellow grains of rice or seeds stuck to the hair around the anus or in the animal's bedding. These worms are not ordinarily diagnosed by veterinarians in the microscopic examination of the fecal specimen, but are almost always reported by the owner who sees them at home. These segments are passed occasionally as they mature. Inside the body these individual segments are attached together in long chains. Sometimes an increase in appetite, dull hair coat, itching around anus, and weight loss can be signs of infection.

Treatment requires an injection or oral medication which may be given at home but directions must be followed, and the exact weight of the animal must be known. Try to give the medication in the morning so that if any problems do arise we can be contacted. All animals treated must be in good health. Never treat an animal that is ill or has recently been ill. Remember, follow directions carefully.

Reinfection with tapeworms is very common, especially if there is a flea problem that is not dealt with during treatment. Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas. The flea may contain an immature tapeworm which, after being swallowed by the animal, develops into a mature tapeworm in the intestine. So flea control is an important part of the treatment to prevent reinfection.

All living things must age, and the transition is not always an easy one for pets and their owners. Fortunately there are signs to help you recognize that your pet is entering it's senior years.

Maybe your pet has stopped greeting you at the door, is forgetting it's housetraining or is no longer as playful. Perhaps you are noticing that your pet is gaining weight, has a poor skin and coat condition, or is sleeping more than usual. While these things may just seem like normal "old age"changes to you, the fact is that any or all of these signs may be an indication that your senior pet has a medical problem that needs attention.

In the past, we have often accepted a declining quality of life for our aging pets as a fact of life beyond our control. Thanks to advances in disease detection and treatment, this is no longer necessary.

With appropriate veterinary care and nutrition, your pet's senior years can be healthy and a happy time. You are the key to making this happen. We recommend that you bring your pet in twice yearly for a senior screen. This screen includes a physical examination and selective laboratory work which evaluates specific areas of concern such as the liver, kidney, and heart.

REMEMBER: Your pet ages 5 to 7 years for every one of yours. This suggests that health problems can progress 5 to 7 times faster and therefore, more frequent checkups are needed.

By working together, we can prevent or treat many problems that could rob your pet of it's quality of life.

The accompanying age analogy chart illustrates when your pet falls into the senior category.

By sharing life and love with you, your pet has given you a priceless gift. Now that your pet has earned senior status, you have an opportunity to give something in return: the special love and care that can make it's "golden years" happy and healthy. We encourage you to make an appointment soon to discuss how we can help make these the best years of your life together.

Sincerely,
Doctors and Staff of Ehrlich Animal Hospital