Parasite Screening

Intestinal Parasite

We use a fecal exam to check for parasites including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and giardia, to name just a few. Any animal that spends any time outside, even briefly, runs the risk of contracting these parasites.

• Has your pet consumed any vegetation or grass outside?
• Does your pet enjoy pursuing rats or rabbits?
• After spending time outside, does your pet lick his or her feet?
• Does your indoor plants’ potting soil make a good snack for your pet?
• How much unknowable “stuff” do you carry into your house with you when you wear shoes?

In our clinic, we encounter various ways through which pets can contract intestinal parasites. These parasites are present throughout the year and, unfortunately, can also infect humans.

Heartworm and Tick-Borne Diseases & Screening

In addition to being bothersome, ticks have the potential to transmit diseases to animals through a tick bite. Any time of year, anywhere in the United States, you can find ticks. Ticks are becoming more prevalent in Michigan, according to recent maps of parasite prevalence. Additionally, because ticks are so tiny, it may occasionally be challenging to find a tick hiding within your pet’s coat. Yearly heartworm and tick-borne disease screening are vital to the early detection of heartworm disease, Lyme disease ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis, three separate tick-borne diseases, so you can determine whether your dog has unknowingly been exposed to one of these diseases.