7. If needed, slowly add more flotation solution until a positive meniscus( dome) is achieved.
8. Carefully place a coverslip over the meniscus and allow to stand for 10 – 15 min.
9. Lift the coverslip carefully and place it on a microscope slide.
10. View under a microscope using × 40 magnification to identify the presence of worm eggs.
Figure 1 and Figure 2 show examples of parasite eggs viewed under a microscope.
VN-led clinics
VN-led clinics facilitate detailed explanation and demonstration, directly improving compliance and practice – client relationships [ 1, 11 ]. The VN consultation should include:
• The rationale for selecting evidence-based, lifestylematched products
• Demonstration of how to examine the animal for external parasites, including fleas and ticks, and when to check for them; for example, if a dog has been walked in areas of long grass or a rabbit has been in contact with wild rabbits
• How to apply the chosen formulation properly, so spot-on treatments reach the skin, not just the coat
• The importance of regular FECs to guide treatments, monitor efficacy, mitigate resistance and prevent zoonotic transmission
• Explanation of the results of the FEC or coproantigen ELISA test and the impact of the results on the animal ' s parasiticide regimen
Figure 1. Dipylidium caninum egg under a microscope. Source: Veterinary Pathology Group( VPG), Exeter.
• Discussion of how to reduce the risk of infection, such as picking up faeces straight after they have been passed, washing hands after handling, covering up sandpits and preventing scavenging( for example, muzzle training)
• Discussion of any financial concerns that may affect the client ' s approach to parasite control.
Effective VN-led clinics are ideal for discussions around parasite prevention, as they allow for comprehensive enquiry into the owner ' s and pet ' s lifestyle, environment and risk of exposure, and the demonstration of products( Tables 1 – 3, page 31) [ 5, 7, 12 ].
Figure 2. Toxocara canis egg under a microscope. Source: Veterinary Pathology Group( VPG), Exeter.
It is also possible to perform a coproantigen ELISA test, as the antigens of some parasites, such as Toxocara spp., Trichuris vulpis and hookworms, can be identified in faeces [ 7 ]. This test can be used either for surveillance of infection or for monitoring the efficacy of treatment [ 5 ].
Ectoparasites can be identified on the skin of the animal, and it is useful to demonstrate skin examination to the owner to encourage early detection.
Superficial or deep skin scrapings can be collected by a VN using a scalpel blade smeared with mineral oil to identify mites such as Demodex canis in dogs, Demodex gatoi in cats, and Sarcoptes scabiei [ 7 ].
Following the consultation, the VN can perform an FEC on a faecal sample brought in by the client, and document the findings and preliminary recommendations. They cannot prescribe POM-V medicines, but the information obtained will inform the risk assessment and subsequent veterinary consultation.
If the FEC is negative, treatment can be postponed, reducing unnecessary parasiticide use. If the FEC is positive, the VS can prescribe treatment based on the identified species of parasite and level of shedding [ 8 ]. It may also be useful to ask the owner to submit a faecal sample at a suitable interval after treatment, to assess the efficacy of the treatment [ 7 ].
Once the results of the FEC have been added to the pet ' s record by the VN, the VS can perform the required physical examination, review the VN ' s consultation notes and FEC results, and select an appropriate parasiticide to prescribe.
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