Pet Fecal Exams in Holly Springs, NC, From Your Local Vet

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Holly Springs is a vet in Holly Springs, NC, that runs fecal exams to screen dogs and cats for intestinal parasites. A fecal exam checks a small stool sample for worm eggs and other parasites, and most adult pets need one at least once a year.

Many parasites cause no signs at first. A pet can look healthy and still shed eggs in the yard, at the dog park and on the greenway.

Call (919) 591-0887 or book online. Walk-ins are welcome.

What does a fecal exam check for?

A fecal exam at Petfolk Holly Springs looks for parasites that live in the gut, including:

• Roundworms, very common in puppies and kittens.

• Hookworms, which feed on blood and can cause anemia (low red blood cells).

• Whipworms, a common cause of long-lasting diarrhea in dogs.

• Giardia, a one-celled parasite often picked up from water.

• Coccidia, another one-celled parasite seen in young pets.

Tapeworms are often missed on a stool test, because their eggs come out in segments. If you see small white rice-like bits near your pet's tail, tell the vet.

How often should my pet have a fecal exam?

Most adult dogs and cats at Petfolk Holly Springs need a fecal exam once a year, at their wellness visit. Puppies and kittens need several during their first months. Dogs who go to daycare, the dog park or hiking trails may need checks twice a year, and so may pets with diarrhea or weight loss.

Collecting a stool sample

It's easier than it sounds:

1. Collect a fresh sample, ideally from the last 12 hours.

2. A spoonful is enough, about the size of a grape or two.

3. Use a clean bag or container and seal it.

4. Keep it cool, but don't freeze it.

5. Bring it to your pet's visit at Petfolk Holly Springs.

If you can't get a sample, the team can sometimes collect a small one during the visit.

Why parasites spread around Holly Springs

Parasite eggs can survive in soil for a long time, and many dogs share the same grass. That's one reason the Town of Holly Springs requires people to pick up after their pets on public property and other people's land, according to the town's Animal Control rules. At busy spots like the Dog Park at Sugg Farm or the Carl Dean Greenway, bagging every pile helps protect every dog that visits.

Giardia often comes from water. Dogs who drink from creeks, puddles or the edge of Bass Lake have a higher chance of picking it up.

Some parasites, like roundworms and hookworms, can also spread to people. Wash hands after yard work and cleanup, and keep sandboxes covered.

What happens if the test finds parasites?

The vet at Petfolk Holly Springs explains what was found and prescribes the right medicine. Some parasites need one dose, others need several over a few weeks. The team may suggest a follow-up test to make sure the treatment worked. Monthly preventives that also cover intestinal worms can help stop the problem from coming back.

Fear Free handling is standard at every Petfolk clinic, so checkups with stool tests and any treatment stay calm.

What does a fecal exam cost in Holly Springs?

A fecal exam at Petfolk Holly Springs is usually added to an exam. A wellness exam starts at $99, or is included with a PetfolkCare membership which starts at $199 a year. The test is priced separately. You'll get an estimate before any test or treatment. The final bill can differ if the plan changes during the visit.

See also deworming in Holly Springs.

When diarrhea becomes serious

Call the clinic if your pet has diarrhea for more than a day or two, or diarrhea with blood. If your pet is very weak, has pale gums or collapses, go to a 24-hour emergency hospital.

Drop off a sample

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Holly Springs is at 105 Village Walk Dr, Holly Springs, NC 27540, with free parking. Call (919) 591-0887, book online or walk in.

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