Hookworms are found in the small intestine of a number of domestic animals. The hookworms found in dogs include Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostomoa braziliense, and Uncinaria stenocephala. They are typically found in warm humid climates, but can be found in cool climates. They are not typically a problem in dry, arid regions.
Transmission and infection is acquired from the environment by skin penetration or oral ingestion of larvae. Following direct penetration of the skin, larvae enter the bloodstream and migrate to the small intestines by way of the lungs. The normal period from skin penetration or oral ingestion to disease is about 2 weeks.
As hookworms feed, they suck plugs of intestinal tissue. This causes the following clinical signs:
A deworming agent is the typical treatment. Severe cases will require supportive therapy to treat loss of blood and and effects of diarrhea and vomiting, if present.
Since the larvae of the hookworm are found in fecal matter, stools should be picked up and disposed of properly.