Deborah TorresWhipworms are a type of parasitic worm that lives in soil. They are often found in yards and gardens, especially around trees and shrubs. These worms are harmless to humans, but they can cause damage to plants if left untreated.
What Are Whipworms?
Whipworms are parasitic worms that live inside the intestines of humans and other animals. They are also known as Enterobiasis. The eggs hatch in the small intestine and then migrate through the bloodstream to the lungs where they mature into adult whipworms.
Ways to Remove Whipworms Out of Yard
Whipworms are very difficult to get rid of once they have infected a yard. Eggs can remain dormant for up 5 years. They survive the heat, cold, most lawn treatments and most poisons. To get rid of them, use the following methods:
Cleaning The Yard
Whipworm eggs enter the yard through your pet’s feces. If you like walk barefoot on your yard, it is possible to pick up these eggs from the ground and spread them throughout the yard.
If you do not maintain a clean yard, this will allow the eggs to become fertilized and develop into larvae which may infect your other healthy pets. It took 2-4 weeks for the eggs to matured before they can cause infection.
It is important to clean your dog’s feces from the yard quickly to prevent the eggs from entering the soil and grow into parasites.
Apply Lime
Applying Lime to your yard is another way to get rid of whipworms from your yard. Lime is a natural substance you use to dry out whipworm egg and kill them. You can also apply lime to the soil by spreading it around. Use 40-50 pounds of this substance per 1,000 square foot of lawn. This will be enough to kill whipworm eggs in the soil.
When using lime to kill whipworms, do not water your lawn for two weeks after applying the lime. If you experience rain, if the lime is wetted, or if the soil is muddy, the lime may not be effective in killing the whipworms in your yard, so be sure to use this tactic only during dry periods.
- Size : 25 lb.
- Coverage Area : 5000 sq. ft.
- Granules form
- Earth Science fast acting lime adds essential elements back into the soil
- Naturally raising the pH level and helping plants absorb food
Treat Your Dog For Whipworms
Whipworms mainly affect dogs and foxes. So the easiest way to prevent your dog from being infected is to keep other animals out of your yard. If you suspect that your dog may be infected with whipworms, contact your vet immediately.
If your dog is diagnosed with whipworms, consult on the best treatment for your dog. Treatment may include several stages to ensure that it completely eliminates all these parasites in the dog.
- For Treatment and control of roundworms hookworms whipworms and tapeworms
- Can be used on young puppies debilitated dogs pregnant females.
- Safe for puppies at least 6 weeks old
Signs That Your Dog Are Infected With Whipworms?
Unfortunately, not all infected dogs will show signs, but the whipworms do exist and shed eggs. These eggs are passed on by the dog when they defecate. Dogs with more severe infections usually show signs such as blood in their stool, weight loss and dehydration.
More severe infections can also cause death, especially if untreated. Whipworm eggs are detected during a veterinary fecal exam. Because the worm sheds eggs on an irregular basis, repeated fecal exams might be needed to detect them.
Remove the Top Soil
Whipworms are found in the top layer of soil. Thus, they can easily be ingested by any animal that digs into the ground. To prevent them from being ingested, remove the top six inches of topsoil and replace it with fresh soil.
This will be an extreme method for larger yards. However, by replacing old topsoil, bringing in new soil, and seeding your lawn, you will be certain you have eliminated the whipworm infestation from your yard.
Disinfect Paved Surfaces
Although whipworm eggs normally live in the soil, they can also be found on hard surfaces such as patios, decks, etc. To kill these eggs, spray the hard surface with bleach.
Try Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous Earth is an effective way to kill off any whipworm eggs or larvae present in the yard. You should apply diatomaceous earth at least twice per year. This product works by absorbing moisture and becoming sticky when wet.
- Natural Product - Composed of 10lbs of 100% ground freshwater diatomaceous earth with absolutely no additives or fillers.
- OMRI Listed - Listed with the Organic Minerals Research Institute, a non-profit organization that reviews products against organic standards.
- Powder Duster Included - Powder duster in the bag for easy and efficient application in difficult to reach areas.
- Made in the USA – Mined in Nevada and packaged in Georgia
- Supports a Great Cause - Harris donates 10% of profits to support the local Etowah Valley Humane Society.
Preventive Methods in Dealing Whipworms In Your Yard
These tips below can help you avoid having whipworms and become a significant part of the struggle you face each day.
- Keep yard clean
- Clean up feces after pets
- Mow grass regularly so that there is no place for the parasite eggs to hide
- Avoid using chemicals due to their harmful effects
How Long Can Whipworms Live in Soil?
The lifespan of whipworms depends on several factors such as temperature, humidity, food availability, etc. However, if left untreated, whipworms can stay alive for more than 10 years.
Can Whipworms Survive Winter Weather?
Whipworms can survive in cold weather. They can also survive in hot weather. If your dog has been infected with whipworm or if you think your yard is contaminated with them, don’t expect winter temperatures to kill whipworms.
Can Humans Get Whipworms?
Anyone who comes into contact with contaminated feces may also contract a whipworm. The infection is more common in children. It is more prevalent in regions with hot, moist climates and in areas with low hygiene and sanitation.
Symptoms of Whipworms Infection
A variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe of whipworm infection. They may have the following symptoms:
- bloody diarrhea
- painful or frequent defecation
- abdominal pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- headaches
- sudden and unexpected weight loss
- fecal incontinence, or the inability to control defecation
Is Whipworm Fatal to Dogs?
Yes, whipworms are fatal. They cause blockage in intestinal tract and inflammation, which can lead to death. The best way to prevent whipworm infection is to keep your dog away from feces. If you find a worm in your dog’s stool, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whipworms are one of the most dangerous parasitic worms affecting dogs worldwide. These tiny creatures live inside the intestines of dogs and cats. When they mature, they leave the intestine and move to another location where they lay eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the larva enters the environment via the fecal matter of the host animal. After hatching, the parasite moves around until it finds its next host.
