When is deworming needed?

[JoFisch]

Are there any guidelines for deworming? I am a veterinarian and for some parasites deworming is always recommended and for otheres, it depends on fecal egg counts.
My 2y old Hermans has a few nematode (round worm) eggs but has normal stool and is growing well.
Any long time tortoise keepers have an opinion?

 

[Tom]

Are there any guidelines for deworming? I am a veterinarian and for some parasites deworming is always recommended and for otheres, it depends on fecal egg counts.
My 2y old Hermans has a few nematode (round worm) eggs but has normal stool and is growing well.
Any long time tortoise keepers have an opinion?

You already spelled it out. If the counts are low, and all seems good, I leave them alone. If there is an issue with appetite, growth, or any sort of a problem, I will treat.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

I agree with @Tom
A tortoise with a few worms is actually very common. But treatment isn't usually required.

Sometimes inexperienced vets will do a knee jerk reaction to seeing a worm. And it can be alarming for a keeper to see.

 

[JoFisch]

Thanks!