What is a common sign of a hookworm infection?

A common sign of a hookworm infection is the presence of pale mucus membranes. This occurs because hookworms feed on the host's blood, leading to blood loss and subsequently causing anemia. The reduction in red blood cells gives the gums and other mucus membranes a lighter coloration, which is often one of the initial indicators of such an infection in dogs. Monitoring the color of a dog's mucus membranes is a vital assessment tool in veterinary practice, as it can help identify underlying health issues, including parasitic infections like hookworms.

While other options may also indicate health problems, they are not specifically or uniquely associated with hookworm infections. Severe vomiting and diarrhea can arise from a variety of gastrointestinal issues, while excessive itching typically points towards skin conditions or allergies, rather than internal parasitic infections. Thus, pale mucus membranes remain a key sign to observe when assessing for hookworm infections.