Tapeworms:  Worm

Common in:  Puppies, dogs, kittens, cats. 

Diagnosis: Visual detection.

Treatment: Oral medication or injection.

Possible Symptoms: None; visible segments.

Possible Transmission: Fleas; occurs when your dog or cat bites and "eats" a flea.  

Growth cycle of Tapeworms: The intermediate form of the tapeworm is inside the flea's body, and it then attaches to the intestine and begins to grow "segments".  In about 3 weeks, these segments begin to pass in the stool.  They are approximately 1/4 or 1/2 inch long, flat, and white.  After a short time in the air, they dry up and resemble a small yellow flat seed.

Lifestyle Prevention: Strict flea control.  

Zoonotic Transmission: Unlikely.