Just as routine health check-ups are important for our health, so are routine wellness visits for our dogs — even the most basic wellness visit would include an annual fecal exam. While the fecal exam may not be glamorous, this short, simple test is vital when it comes to protecting the health of your dog — sometimes protecting your dog before a symptom appears at all.
Thousands of dogs every year are diagnosed with more or less serious intestinal parasites — many of which could have been detected early with a routine fecal exam. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) estimates that at any time up to thirty-four percent (34%) of all dogs will have intestinal parasites in the United States.
Intestinal parasites can cause more than just uncomfortable stomach. They can lead to severe digestive issues, weight loss, and even more severe illnesses.
Why a fecal exam?
Fecal exams are used to check for hidden parasites. Examples include:
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roundworms
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hookworms
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whipworms
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giardia
These hidden parasites may be harming your pet with no visible signs or symptoms. Early detection of parasites means you and/or your dog don't feel pain and the expense of unnecessary treatment down the road.
Dogs are always at risk of exposure. Dogs pick up parasites commonly from:
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Dog parks and public parks
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Sidewalks and trails (sometimes people miss — poop!)
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Shared water bowls or play areas
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Activities like hiking, agility, or outdoor sports
All it takes is a simple trip to an outdoor space to acquire parasite eggs or larvae, including a trip to the backyard or a jaunt around the block, even if your dog is home most of the time.
How to Prepare for a Fecal Exam
Fecal exams are simple to prepare for. You will want to collect a fresh stool sample (no more than 12 hours old) and bring it to your veterinarian in a clean, sealed, unbreakable container. If the sample is too dry or has been left in the sun, this may incline inaccuracies in the test.
Also, you want to avoid bringing in anything older than a day, as parasites (or concerning parasite eggs) will have dried out or the abnormality in question will be more difficult to detect. Your veterinarian will examine the sample for signs of infection and if appropriate will recommend safe and effective treatment.
Parasites Are More Than an Annoyance
For some parasites, mild symptoms like soft stool or intermittent scooting may occur, however for many parasites, signs of infection could include:
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Lethargy and weight loss
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Digestive deficiencies
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Serious diseases resulting in hospitalization (rare)
These are not little problems, nor is your dog unnecessarily suffering from them. Luckily, fecal samples can provide an expeditious, economical, and effective means to rid your dog of parasites.
Protect Your Pup — Book His Fecal Exam Today
Fecal exams are an important component of your pet's preventive care, like vaccines or heartworm checks at least annually. They provide peace of mind, early detection, and health improvement for your pup.
Whether your dog is a backyard slouch or an adventurous trail dog, don't wait until there are symptoms. Schedule a future fecal exam with their yearly physical and be proactive all year round against parasites hiding in your pup.
Your dog counts on you — make this easy step just part of their routine care.
