A relatively new infection risk for both pets and humans has started appearing in Ontario, with enough cases to merit some basic prevention methods.
Veterinarian Dr. Hailey MacDonald has the details.
MacDonald reports that when humans come into contact with the eggs of this canine tapeworm, the results can be painful and serious.
Recent research shows that almost a quarter of coyotes and foxes in Southern and Eastern Ontario are carrying the tapeworm and that it’s now considered endemic. Prevention is key according to MacDonald.
She also advises everyone to follow the age-old advice of wearing gloves when picking up canine feces and when removing any road-killed wildlife as the tapeworm eggs can survive on animal fur for some time and in the soil for up to a year. Post clean-up thorough hand-washing is also a must.
Story by Brian Turner
