What does a dog fecal test check for? Does my dog really need it?

Yes, Vetco clinics can do fecal exams to check for common parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. You can see a list of services offered here: https://www.vetcoclinics.com/services-and-clinics/vaccination-packages-and-prices/

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Intestinal parasites can be ruled out quickly with a fecal test. Once your vet determines the type of parasite, they can recommend the appropriate dewormer. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any questions you have!

A fecal exam may detect a variety of intestinal parasites (worms, giardia, coccidia, flukes, etc.) as well as bacterial overgrowth. In certain cases, a fecal sample can be used to diagnose maldigestion or malabsorption issues.

That is a good question. Usually once yearly during Jenny's physical exam a fecal is done. They will look under the microscope to see if there are worm eggs or other parasites. Also I recommend checking for parasites should she have diarrhea and blood and or mucus in the stool. If they find parasite eggs they will prescribe the correct medication. I generally do not deworm without knowing if they have intestinal parasites and which ones as there are several different deworm medications that are used for different types of parasites. Giving monthly heartworm medication will help control intestinal parasites also. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Jenny.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The intestinal worms that can be missed are some that are either difficult to find normally or the ones that are intermittently eliminated by the affected animal like Giardia and Coccidia, among others. Fecal samples can in fact be submitted to a reference laboratory for investigation. Good luck and have a great day!

Hi there. Most of our fecal exams require specific tests that will separate our parasite eggs from the feces. Typically I do what's called a fecal float-as most people do. Under the microscope you would be looking for parasite eggs-but there are various forms and you have to know what you're looking for. If you look it up, there are diagrams on certain types of eggs online-but I always recommend a fecal be done by your doctor in case any are missed at home.

Severe worm infestations will cause weight loss and GI signs. Minor infestations will be asymptomatic. I would recommend to collect a sample of stool and take it in for testing. If you can get a sample that you think has worms in it, then that would be best. Call the Wellness clinic to make sure they can test dogs for GI parasites. The cost of the dewormer will vary based upon what type of worms are present and also where you live. In general the fecal exam is around $40 and the dewormer could range anywhere from $20-60 but once again, these are estimates. Things in New York City cost more than things in Louisville, Ky. I hope this helps!