Tortoise has roundworms!

Rocky219

Active Member
Joined
Nov 30, 2020
Messages
160
Location (City and/or State)
Massachusetts
I brought in my annual tortoise fecal sample yesterday and today I got the news that my tortoise has ascaris/roundworms. The vet said that they will contact a specialist to talk to us. Is there anything I can do in the meantime? I think I take good care of her. I've read all the caresheets, asked questions. BTW it's a 4-5 hear old female Hermann Tortoise. I've only had her for a year or a year and a half. Is the parasite deadly? I know that parasites are common but I was not expecting this because she acts fine. Any responses are much appreciated.

Also I'm not trying to be selfish but could she give me roundworms?
 
Last edited:

ZEROPILOT

REDFOOT WRANGLER
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Parasites are REALLY COMMON.
Most tortoises that have some live perfectly normal lives. In fact I no longer advocate treatment if the tortoise seems other wise healthy. I just quarantine.
Several treatments such as PANACUR are very good at killing the worms. But only use exactly what a qualified tortoise vet reccomends and in that exact dosage.

Wanting to treat for Parasites because a few were seen is all too common. It's a knee jerk reaction by vets. And it sounds frightening to the owners.
Don't feel rushed to do anything about it. Find a truly qualified tort vet.
(If this isn't one)
No. You won't get roundworms.
 

Rocky219

Active Member
Joined
Nov 30, 2020
Messages
160
Location (City and/or State)
Massachusetts
Parasites are REALLY COMMON.
Most tortoises that have some live perfectly normal lives. In fact I no longer advocate treatment if the tortoise seems other wise healthy. I just quarantine.
Several treatments such as PANACUR are very good at killing the worms. But only use exactly what a qualified tortoise vet reccomends and in that exact dosage.

Wanting to treat for Parasites because a few were seen is all too common. It's a knee jerk reaction by vets. And it sounds frightening to the owners.
Don't feel rushed to do anything about it. Find a truly qualified tort vet.
(If this isn't one)
No. You won't get roundworms.
Okay thank you very much! That makes me feel a lot better
 

Rocky219

Active Member
Joined
Nov 30, 2020
Messages
160
Location (City and/or State)
Massachusetts
Update guys! My vet said that we can either put some powder or liquid on her food to help kill the parasites. I chose liquid. I'm getting it soon!
 
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