Parasitic Roundworms

[bioteach]

We brought our Desert Tortoise to the vet for her annual checkup and lo and behold, her stool sample was full of roundworm eggs! She appears healthy, eats well, and had no obvious signs of illness; but a large parasite burden can be harmful over time. She has been medicated and will return to the vet for a follow-up soon; but there is always the danger of reinfection because she lives outdoors (as Desert Tortoises do). We have observed birds taking a drink from her water source, and there are many species of ants here that can also carry parasites. We will keep a close check on her; and I am glad that we had her checked out.

 

[Yvonne G]

This is good to know, thanks for posting.