Doing your own fecal exams

[kyleena29]

I was wondering if anyone has suggestions, links or pictures of possible protozoa and other things bearded dragons can get. I have a basic understanding of how to find the common parasites through fecal float. I have tried smears but unsure of what to look for. I also thought about using stains. I'm not entirely sure of what the procedure is for that or if it is really necessary. What stains should I use? My microscope can do up to 1000x. Any info is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[kyleena29]

These were at 400x.

Maybe hookworm and no clue on the other.

 

[Rankins]

Gentian Violet is the typical stain used. My microbiology courses were nearly 30 years ago so I'm way out of practice to give very good advice on it though

 

[kyleena29]

Ok thank you

 

[CooperDragon]

Beautiful Dragons has a quick reference chart that might be helpful http://www.beautifuldragons.com/Parasitechart.html

Using the chart it does look like the first could be a hookworm egg which some Panacur should be able to take care of. Second is maybe a roundworm? I'm really not sure though. I'm not experienced with detecting these and am just comparing the photos to the chart.

 

[kyleena29]

Thank you