Trichuriasis

                          ------------

                      (whipworm infection)



                      General Information



The whipworm is a small, thin worm that lives in the large

intestine and cecum.  The cecum is a blind pouch located between

the small and large intestine;  it resembles the human appendix.



The whipworm gets its name from its body shape.  Its body is very

delicate and its tail tapers into a narrow whip-like structure.

It is difficult to see in the stool because of its size.



Whipworms can cause diarrhea, bloody feces and poor general

health.  Massive rectal bleeding occasionally occurs.  Diagnosis

is by microscopic examination of the feces.  Sometimes several

samples must be examined before the worm eggs are found.  It

takes about 3-4 months after infection until eggs are passed in

an infected pet's stool.



                 Important Points in Treatment



Effective medication can cure your pet of whipworms.  However,

good hygiene is required to prevent reinfection.  Stools should

be properly disposed of daily.



Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet continues to have diarrhea.



    * Your pet's haircoat is dull.



    * Your pet loses weight.



____A stool sample is requested.