• Parasite testing should be an important part of looking after reptiles in captivity.
• Stress factors of the captive environment can increase numbers and exacerbate signs.
• A 3 day pooled sample is ideal and may increase sensitivity but we are aware this may not be possible in many cases.
• A parasite faecal test is a "snapshot" in time and will be dependant on a number of factors i.e. a female that is laying eggs, or not.
ALL LEVELS OF TESTING WILL CHECK FOR THE FOLLOWING PARASITES
PARASITE DETECTION PROBABILITY (SENSITIVITY): GOLD > SILVER > BRONZE
• Pinworms
• Other nematode or roundworm eggs/larvae
• Protozoa - Flagellated and ciliated protozoa, coccidia, entamoeba, others
• Pseudo-parasites ie from live prey or insects
• Cryptosporidium (Comprehensive Parasite Test - Gold)
• Trematodes
• Tapeworm (ovae and hexacanth embryos)
*Specific names will be given where possible ie Isospora amphiboluri
SIMPLE STEPS
• Click "order now" and checkout to receive your parasite pack
• Fill out form and collect sample
• Post sample - envelope and stamp provided
• Results sent via e-mail in PDF format within 5 working days of sample receipt (extra day for crypto) unless stated otherwise
• Footnotes and advise shall be given. You must contact your veterinary surgeon for interpretation as treatment may or may not be indicated based on the results and the whole clinical picture.
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Test Sensitivity |
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Basic Parasite Screen (R-PS) Reptiland Bronze Level. The cost effective solution for routine screening. Subjective parasite numbers and identification. This test will not show actual numbers. Includes: • Direct Wet Mounts |
+ |
£13.50 p&p included |
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Parasite Test (R-PT) Reptiland Silver Level. Higher Sensitivity and more comprehensive. Objective Pinworm numbers and parasite identification. Min 1-2 grams faeces needed. Includes: • Direct Wet Mounts • McMasters Flotation • Worm-Count |
++ |
£15.50
p&p
included |
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Comprehensive Parasite Test (R-CPT) Reptiland Gold Level. Highest Sensitivity, Complete and Comprehensive test. Objective Pinworm numbers and parasite identification including Cryptosporidium staining. Min 2-4 grams faeces needed. Includes: • Direct Wet Mounts • McMasters Flotation • Worm-Count • Centrifugal Flotation • Sedimentation • Cryptosporidium Testing for lizards, snakes and tortoises |
+++ Crypto |
£23.00
p&p
included |
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Cryptosporidium, individual and sequenced testing available - Click here
Extra tests may be performed (ie sedimentation test and additional staining) for data collection, in which case these shall also be reported.
Centrifugal flotation using sodium nitrate and/or zinc sulphate is our preferred method. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends centrifugal flotation as the preferred method for routine screening of faecal samples for detection of parasite ova. This is the technique we use. PCR testing and species identification is sent out to a referral laboratory.
At present we are performing studies regarding parasites in the captive environment and therefore the results could be used for publication purposes. The samples and information received shall form part of our database and will be anonymous.
We are unable to discuss treatment regimes as per the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) rules as the animals are not under our care. Footnotes shall be given and you should contact your veterinary surgeon regarding treatment. We also offer support for your veterinary surgeon if necessary. Further tests may be recommended in specific cases which may include PCR testing.