What it is: A test performed on a stool sample to evaluate for the presence of internal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms and whipworms.  (Tapeworms are identified visually by the rice-like segments on the stool or at the pet’s rear.) 

Why fecal testing is important:

It’s not fun to bring us a sample, but it is important.

1. These parasites can cause vomiting and/or diarrhea, poor nutrient absorption and weight loss. Hookworms can cause blood loss as they hook onto the intestinal wall and feed on the animal’s blood. Roundworms can cause coughing and gagging as larvae migrate through the lungs to the intestines.

2. These parasites are also a threat for the people living with them and exposed to their fecal material.  This is especially true of families with young children or with family members whose immune system is compromised/suppressed.  Larval migrations can cause blindness, skin lesions and other illnesses as they migrate through the body.  Recently, the Center for Disease Control has established that between 1 and 3 million people are infected with roundworms each year in the US.  We recommend a yearly fecal exam and ask that you bring a stool sample to the annual examination.  Usually results are available by the end of the appointment. Without a sample to test we will often deworm all the pets in a home empirically.  This helps treat hidden infections.  Heartworm prevent-ion is additionally helpful controlling fecal parasites