ICYMI. Drug-resistant hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum) are now widespread in dogs across the United States and have been identified in Canada. Hookworm anthelmintic resistance is no longer limited to a single antimicrobial. It has been documented for several common deworming drugs, including fenbendazole and febantel (benzimidazoles), macrocyclic lactones, avermectin/milbemycin and pyrantel (tetrahydropyrimidines). Similarly, greyhounds are no longer the only breed reported, with studies finding treatment-resistant hookworms in other breeds, and one recent study describing detection in more than 70 different breeds.
Source: Today’s Veterinary Practice, January/February 2024. Link. Being zoonotic amplifies the need for client communication on the importance of picking up fecal material after dogs and cleaning feline litter boxes to reduce further parasite spread.
Pick up that poop please!”
INSIGHTS: This article represents another reason for dog owners to be wary at dog parks. Consider sharing a summary of the information with pet owners, public park officials and local media sources especially when you’ve discovered cases of hookworms in the practice.
Feature a veterinary technician to share hookworm information to advance their standing as a medical professionals.”