One of the most common intestinal parasites of dogs and cats can cause liver disease, blindness, respiratory problems and cognitive dysfunction in humans. Roundworms (toxacara sp.) are seen by veterinarians on a daily basis and we try to educate our clients about the danger, especially to children.
Dogs and cats infected with Roundworms shed microscopic eggs in the stool, contaminating the soil of playgrounds, parks, backyards, gardens and sandboxes. Anyone playing there can easily transfer these parasites from hand to mouth. Once ingested, the eggs hatch and release larvae that can migrate to the liver, eyes and brain.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that five percent of the entire U.S. population has been exposed to this parasite. In populations below the poverty line, the exposure is ten percent! Children who were exposed have significantly lower scores on intelligence and achievement tests. This perpetuates the cycle of poverty and probably explains why it isn't front-page news.
Prevention is simple. You and your children Must wash your hands after playing with pets or in areas pets may have defecated. Puppies and kittens should be prophylactically dewormed at least twice and verified as negative on a stool check. Adult dogs and cats should have a verified negative stool check annually. Following these precautions will go a long way to protect you and your family from this hidden danger.