Identification should include

• endoparasites (e.g., heartworm; ascarids, or roundworms; hookworms; whipworms; tapeworms; giardia; coccidia) during different developmental stages
• ectoparasites (e.g., fleas, mites, ticks, Cuterebra) at different developmental stages
• parasites with zoonotic potential
• the life cycle of parasites and its relationship to parasitic infestation, detection, and treatment including targeted prevention strategies.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What distinguishing characteristics are used to identify parasites?
• Why is it difficult to determine if an animal has an internal parasite?
• What techniques are commonly used to check for fleas?
• Why should a dog that tests positive for heartworms not continue taking a heartworm preventive?
• Why are fecal samples important when diagnosing internal parasites?
• What are the similarities and differences between the indirect and direct life cycles of parasites?