Fecal examinations, at least once a year, are recommended to proactively evaluate intestinal parasites. Our pets can ingest intestinal parasites if they lick their paws after returning from a walk, use the same litterbox as an animal infected, play with another dog who is infected or even share a water or food bowl. Intestinal parasites can cause animals to experience diarrhea, vomiting, inappetence and weight loss to list a few clinical signs.
There are several intestinal parasites that can be transmitted to humans. Consult with your human primary care physician for further information on zoonotic pathogens.