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Intestinal parasites or worms are a common concern in all dogs, especially puppies. Worm infestations cause inflammation of the intestinal tract, deprive the dog of nutrients, and can cause blood loss. This can result in diarrhea, vomiting, anemia, and failure to grow normally. In addition, most parasites are contagious to other dogs and some (Giardia and Toxocara) can be transmitted to humans. Almost all puppies are born with roundworms (of which Toxocara is one species), therefore, routinely deworming for this parasite is recommended. Most infestations can only be accurately identified by microscopic examination of the pet’s feces for parasite eggs. Since parasite eggs are shed intermittently, we recommend testing the puppy’s stools 3 times to eliminate any intestinal parasites. Adults should have a fecal test performed annually. Tapeworms are one type of intestinal parasite that are not routinely found on a fecal exam. They look like small, moving, rice-sized worms in the feces.
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