
13. Hookworm
The hookworm is a parasite that lives in the intestines of a dog. They attach themselves to the intestinal wall. This may cause a good deal of internal bleeding and has been known to cause the deaths of puppies. The symptoms of hookworm in a pet include diarrhea, weight loss, and a failure to thrive.

Like all parasites, hookworms lay eggs. The eggs are excreted from the dog’s body in its feces. Accidental contact with the feces could infect a human being. For example, accidentally stepping on dog feces could allow the hookworm eggs to enter the body via the skin. The symptoms humans display when they have hookworms include stomach pains, loss of appetite, and anemia. Both pets and owners need antiparasitic drugs to get rid of a hookworm infestation. Feces should be picked up and disposed of regularly. Always wash hands after collecting feces before moving onto other tasks.