INTESTINAL PARASITE INFO

Coccidia:  Single celled parasite that lives in the wall of the intestines.  Animals become infected by swallowing soil that contains coccidia or other substances in the environment that may contain feces.  Treatment is Albon liquid or tablets.

Giardia:  Single celled parasite that lives in the intestines.  May be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces.   Giardia is also shed by some wildlife.   Treatment is Flagyl. ZOONOTIC

Hookworms:  Intestinal parasite that lives in the digestive system of dogs/cats.  Larvae (young hookworms) live in the soil and can infect your animal through contact with and penetration of the skin.  It is common for hookworms to infect the host through the belly or feet.  They can be ingested through routine grooming/cleaning.  Treatment is Strongid or Panacur.  ZOONOTIC.

Roundworms:  The most common intestinal parasite.  Mom can pass to her young through birth or nursing.  They can also ingest eggs from the environment.  Roundworms are found in the tissue and feces of wildlife.  Treatment is Strongid or Panacur.  ZOONOTIC.

Tapeworms:  Must have intermediate host, usually a flea, but can be in small rodents, deer and sheep.  The animal must ingest the intermediate host to become infected.  Treatment is Cestex or Drontal.

Whipworms:  DOGS ONLY!  Swallow eggs in the soil or other substances that may contain infected feces.  Treatment is Strongid or Panacur.

Zoonoses are diseases that are transmitted between animals and people.  It is very important that we deworm puppies and kittens on a regular basis to decrease the risk of transmission to you and your family.

 Multiple preventative dewormings are also recommended even if the pet tests negative for parasites.  If you have questions or want more info, please feel free to call us, or you may visit petsandparasites.org.