Parasites through a Microscope

Working at the Hampton Bays Wildlife Rescue Center: November 16th

Today, while working at the Wildlife Rescue Center, I learned a significant amount about testing fecal samples for parasites using a microscope. Valerie demonstrated the process of testing to find evidence of parasitic bacteria.

My mentor at the Wildlife Rescue Center, Valerie, was testing a raccoon's fecal sample for parasites (especially roundworm because it is extremely common among raccoons). She wanted to see if the symptoms he was displaying were due to a parasite or the result of a different issue.

In order to test for this, she collected a fecal sample from the raccoon, and looked at the sample through a microscope. She allowed me to look through the microscope as well, and explained to me how to determine which bacteria is the parasite. In addition, she shared that when testing a fecal sample, you are looking for the eggs of the parasite. In order to acquire the eggs, you must mix the fecal sample with a solution that pushes the eggs to the surface. Next, she took a sample from the surface of the mixture, and placed it onto the glass slide to study under the microscope.

As she observed the sample under the microscope, she looked for a large round shape, which would be an indication of the roundworm parasite that was most likely causing this raccoon to have problems.

I was also able to find this parasite while observing the fecal sample under the microscope. It was shocking to see how such a small organism could eventually cause deadly problems in an animal. Valerie was correct in her initial diagnosis, and the raccoon did have a parasite, so she provided the raccoon with the necessary medication, which would provide treatment for the raccoon.

This experience really opened my eyes to how much is really involved in being a veterinary surgeon in both fields of animal care. I think it was a crucial learning experience for me to understand how to test an animal for issues in order to determine what the cause is for any symptoms they are experiencing. Also, it is very important to learn how to read an animal's behavior, in order to decide what tests to conduct. Since animals do not have the ability to tell you how they feel, it is up to the veterinarian to figure out what is wrong through observation and study of the animal. This necessary skill is very challenging to acquire, and is only gained through extensive practice and in-depth experience.