A parasite dangerous to humans and animals in the feces of a dog was found in a laboratory in Pskov. This was reported on the website of the Pskov Regional Veterinary Laboratory.
In a sample of dog feces, laboratory staff found eggs of the nematode Toxocara canis. The causative agent of the parasite is fixed in the small intestine of dogs. Infection can occur by ingesting mature parasite eggs with food or drink, as well as by eating infected meat.
The disease is manifested by diarrhea and constipation, bloating in infected animals, emaciation and pallor of the mucous membranes. Frequent vomiting, colic, perverted appetite and even epileptic convulsions.
“Young animals are particularly affected – puppies aged 20 days to 2.5 months, in adult animals the signs of the disease are erased or completely absent,” the experts added.
Toxocara are also dangerous for the human body. Small children are at risk because they often neglect the rules of personal hygiene. Parasite larvae can migrate from the small intestine to the muscles, lungs and liver, less often to the brain.
It should be noted that the larvae can get into the eyes, causing hemorrhages in the eyeball, inflammation and loss of vision. Some of the parasites die, but some remain in the organs for many years, causing allergies or false epilepsy. Therefore, it is very important to wash your hands every time after communicating with your pet, especially before eating.
Statistics show: out of 3 samples of dog feces, 1 was found to be infected with this parasite. Thus, the infection rate is 33.3%. In order to detect an infection in time, it is necessary to examine pets in a timely manner.
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