By DR. FRED SELF / Veterinarian

There are several parasites that commonly inhabit our pets that would also make a home inside of us if given a chance.

We only see these parasites if we look hard enough because they usually live inside the intestines of our pets. If we are exposed to them when we do not follow the rules of good hygiene and eat without washing our hands or go outside barefooted, then problems can occur.

The first parasite we should discuss is the roundworm. For our pets, this pest is spread when they swallow one or more of its eggs. The eggs are found in the feces of infected animals.

Once the eggs are passed out into the environment they stick to the feet or fur of our pets and are later swallowed as the pet grooms itself. Once inside our pets, the eggs hatch and grow into adult roundworms. For those of us that forget to wash before we eat, the eggs are swallowed after petting our furry friends or digging in the yard.

Another form of infection can take place in humans as well. If the eggs happen to hatch and the immature worm attaches to the skin of a human, they can burrow in and crawl through multiple organs, a condition called visceral larval migrans.

Next, are hookworms. Just like the roundworm, hookworm eggs are passed out into the world to be eaten by the next pet. When swallowed by a pet or by their human, the eggs hatch and develop into adult worms. However, their eggs may also hatch in the environment. If the newly hatched worm attaches to the skin of a human, they can burrow in and migrate under the skin. This is called cutaneous larval migrans.

Another parasite found in our pets is the whipworm. The whipworm is relatively tame in comparison to roundworms and hookworms. It is spread when swallowed, but does not attach itself to the outside and burrow into anyone.

The take-home message is that any animal with a questionable background should be suspected of carrying intestinal parasites. When handling or petting or cleaning up after them, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly. Also wear shoes when walking in the yard. And if you plan on working in flowerbeds in your yard, wear gloves at all times. Our pets should be kept safe by using a routine de-worming program.

Dr. Fred Self is a veterinarian at Shelbiana Animal Clinic, along with Dr. Charles Thornburg. You can reach him at 669-7717.