P1 / PET SAFETY

Microchipping Your Pet

P2 / PET SAFETY

Dangerous Household Items

P3 / ZOONOTIC DISEASE

Intestinal Parasites

P4 / FOOD SAFETY

Back-to-School Lunch Bag 

Food Safety

Every year thousands of pets wander off or become lost, and sadly, 

many are never returned to their families. Collars with identification 

tags are important, but can easily slip off or be taken off. Microchipping 

your pet can dramatically increase the chances of your pet being 

returned to you. 

A microchip is a tiny radio-frequency identification (RFID) implant, 

roughly the size of a long grain of rice, which contains a unique 

identification number that can be read by a microchip scanner. The 

microchip can be scanned and read by most animal shelters and 

veterinary clinics in the U.S. The microchip itself has no internal energy 

source, so it will last for the life of your pet. It is read by passing a 

microchip scanner over the pet’s shoulder blades. The scanner emits a 

low radio frequency that provides the power necessary, where the chip 

is located, to transmit the microchip’s unique ID code and positively 

identify the pet. A microchip does not have Global Positioning Satellite 

(GPS) capabilities and cannot track you or your pet’s location.

There is more than one type and multiple brands of microchips. The 

American Veterinary Medical Association recommends International 

Standards Organization (ISO) microchips for all species, and ISO 

microchips are required for international pet travel. ISO microchips 

contain 15 digits and are 134.2 kHz in frequency. 

Cats and dogs both should be microchipped, even if the pet stays 

primarily indoors. Puppies and kittens may be microchipped as early as 

6-8 weeks, depending on their size. It only takes two to three seconds 

for the veterinarian to inject the chip under your pet’s skin between the 

shoulder blades. Talk with your veterinarian about what is best for your 

particular pet. 

You are responsible for submitting your contact information and 

your pet’s information to the microchip manufacturer’s registry and 

keeping the information up to date. The chip itself does not hold your 

pet’s medical information or contact information. The manufacturer’s 

registry holds the information provided. Your veterinary clinic can 

assist with providing the microchip manufacturer’s registry forms and 

contact information. 

Microchipping your pet is required by many installations, communities, 

and countries where our service members and families live. Consult 

with your veterinarian before a permanent change of station move 

to ensure your pet meets all of the necessary health and microchip 

requirements for your new location.

Microchipping Your Pet

2017 News about Animal Health, Food Safety, and One Health.

Army Public Health Center

Veterinary

>> CONT. ON PAGE TWO

FALL EDITION

Approved for public release, 

distribution unlimited.
P2

Is your home safe for your pets? Many items that we consider 

commonplace in our households can actually pose a serious health risk 

to your pets. The following article provides information on some of the 

most common culprits!

Plants

Having plants within the house always adds a nice touch to décor. 

However, certain plants are toxic to your pets when eaten. Always keep 

household plants out of reach of your pets and, if in doubt, consult with 

your veterinarian before bringing a new plant into the house. A few of 

the most common toxic plants found in homes are:

• Poinsettias, which can cause irritation of the mouth and stomach 

and may cause vomiting. 

• Hollies and pines, whose needles can cause irritation of the mouth, 

low energy, diarrhea, weakness, and, in severe cases, trembling. 

• Lilies, which are especially toxic to our feline friends and can cause 

kidney failure. 

• Mistletoe, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, erratic behavior, 

collapse, and potentially death. 

Electrical cords

Electrical cords can present a tempting chew toy to dogs, cats, and 

other small pets. Chewing on electrical cords can lead to electrocution. 

Other injuries can range from cuts and burns in the mouth to fluid 

collecting in the lungs and death. Electrical cords should be replaced 

if frayed, they should be tucked out of sight and reach when possible. 

Also, be sure to use grounded 3-pronged extension cords to help 

protect your pet from shock. 

Batteries

There has been a recent up-surge (pun intended!) in cases of 

button-battery ingestion by pets and infants. Batteries greater than 

2 centimeters in diameter can present a choking hazard. More 

importantly, when chewed and swallowed, batteries can cause serious 

and life-threatening complications in the digestive tract. Seek veterinary 

assistance immediately if you believe your pet has swallowed a battery. 

Always make sure batteries are properly secured inside their intended 

appliances and kept well out of reach of your furry family members. 

Clothes and Other Objects

Every household gets messy! However, laundry, toys, and other small 

objects can be dangerous for pets. Be aware of common everyday items 

that may be dangerous for your pet: 

• Underwear and socks are a favorite for chewing and eating by 

our bored canine friends. Eating these types of items can lead to 

vomiting or in severe cases intestinal blockages that may require 

emergency surgery. 

• String, ribbon, rubber bands, and hair ties can be entertaining for 

our pets to play with but can cause serious and potentially lifethreatening complications when eaten. 

Other toxic or dangerous household items include antifreeze, rat 

poison, fertilizers, and holiday lights and ornaments. If you have any 

questions about what types of household items can be a danger to 

your pet or if you are concerned that your pet may have ingested 

something hazardous or toxic, call your veterinarian for additional 

guidance. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 

(888) 426 4435, but you may be charged a fee for the call. 

Dangerous Household Items 

> Content contributed by CPT Colleen E. Mans, DVM, 

Section Chief, Ft. Carson Veterinary Services

>> CONT. FROM PAGE ONE

Microchipping Your Pet

> Content contributed by Joseph G. Williamson, VMD, 

MPH, DACVPM, Veterinary Services and Public Health 

Sanitation Directorate, Army Public Health Center

Pets with microchips are more likely to be reunited 

with their families. Your local Veterinary Treatment 

Facility can microchip your pet. To locate the facility closest 

to you visit: https://tiny.army.mil/r/JG66r/VTFs

Once your pet is microchipped, remember to:

1. Register the microchip.

2. Ask your veterinarian to scan your pet’s microchip at 

least once per a year to make sure it is working properly.

3. Keep your contact information up-to-date.
P3

Often a veterinarian will ask pet owners to bring a fecal sample to their pet’s annual 

appointment. Although this is sometimes a smelly inconvenience, it is usually the 

easiest way for the doctor to check cats and dogs for intestinal parasites. 

Let’s sort out the differences between four common worms that can be found in your 

pets to keep them (and you) safe! 

Roundworms Tapeworms Whipworms Hookworms

Common intestinal 

parasites found in 

dogs and cats:

Scientific Name

Toxocara canis (dogs only) Dipylidium caninum (dogs 

and cats) Trichuris vulpis (usually dogs 

only)

Ancylostoma spp. (dogs and 

cats)

Toxocara cati (cats only) Taenia spp. (dogs and cats) Uncinaria stenocephala

(dogs, rarely cats)

What does this 

parasite look like?

White or light brown worm 

a few inches long, often 

described as looking like 

spaghetti.

Tapeworm segments seen 

near the rectum look like 

small, white grains of rice.

Tiny white pieces of thread, 

about 1/4 inch long.

Very small white worms 

within the intestinal tract.

Will I be able to see it 

in my pet’s stool? Yes Yes Rarely No

What pets are usually 

affected?

All pets can get 

roundworms, but kittens 

and puppies are the most 

commonly infected.

Pets of all ages can be 

infected.

Pets of all ages can be 

infected.

Pets of all ages; can cause 

severe illness or death in 

young animals.

Symptoms

Vomiting, weight loss, “potbellied” appearance, and 

in severe cases intestinal 

blockage.

Often minimal signs but 

may see itching of the 

rectum.

Watery and/or bloody 

diarrhea, weight loss.

Weight loss, bloody 

diarrhea, anemia, weakness, 

or poor endurance.

How did my pet get 

this parasite?

From their mothers during 

pregnancy and while 

nursing; exposure to stoolcontaminated soil. 

From fleas.

From contaminated food or 

water. Whipworm eggs can 

live in an environment for 

up to 5 years.

From their mothers during 

pregnancy and while 

nursing; exposure to 

contaminated soil.

Can it be spread to 

people? (zoonotic)

Yes, easily spread to children 

who play in areas where 

dogs have gone to the 

bathroom. 

No No Yes, by walking barefoot on 

contaminated soil. 

Deworming 

Recommendations

Pyrantel pamoate—a 

medication given orally 

once.

Fenbendazole or 

praziquantel—a medication 

given orally once.

Fenbendazole or febantel, 

medications given orally; 

requires multiple treatments 

over a 3-month period. 

Fenbendazole for several 

days.

> Content contributed by CPT Crystal R. (Cunningham) Doyle, DVM, 

Branch Chief, Ft. Leonard Wood Veterinary Services

Intestinal Parasites

milPetEDAPP

Available for 

Download milPetED today

Free

Easy to use

Find a Veterinary 

Treatment Facility 

near you

The Military Pet Education (milPetED) Mobile application is the one 

place Service members, beneficiaries, and retirees need to go to obtain 

animal health information, tips, and resources. 
Comments or questions regarding content can be directed to ARMY-VSPublications@mail.mil

Subscribe to the electronic issue of Veterinary Connections by emailing: usarmy.apg.medcom-aphc.mbx.iph-vet@mail.mil. 

Place ” Veterinary Connections” in the subject line.

Locate your local Veterinary Treatment

Facility at https://tiny.army.mil/r/JG66r/VTFs

Comments or questions regarding content can be directed to ARMY-VSPublications@mail.mil

Subscribe to the electronic issue of Veterinary Connections by emailing: usarmy.apg.medcom-aphc.mbx.iph-vet@mail.mil. 

Place ” Veterinary Connections” in the subject line.

Locate your local Veterinary Treatment

Facility at https://tiny.army.mil/r/JG66r/VTFs

Goal of publication:

• Veterinary Connections is a quarterly publication written by Army Veterinary Service personnel and published by the Army Public Health 

Center to inform and educate Service members, beneficiaries, and retirees about Animal Health, Food Safety, and One Health.

• One Health refers to the intersection and overlap between animals, humans, and the environment. 

• Army Veterinary Service personnel serve around the world supporting the Department of Defense as proponents for Animal Health and 

Food Protection.

Veterinary

http://phc.amedd.army.mil

1-800-222-9698

Use of trademarked name(s) does not imply 

endorsement by the U.S. Army but is intended only 

to assist in identification of a specific product.

LUNCH BAG FOOD SAFETY

Goal of publication:

• Veterinary Connections is a quarterly publication written by Army Veterinary Service personnel and published by the Army Public Health 

Center to inform and educate Service members, beneficiaries, and retirees about Animal Health, Food Safety, and One Health.

• One Health refers to the intersection and overlap between animals, humans, and the environment. 

• Army Veterinary Service personnel serve around the world supporting the Department of Defense as proponents for Animal Health and 

Food Protection.

Veterinary

http://phc.amedd.army.mil

1-800-222-9698

Use of trademarked name(s) does not imply 

endorsement by the U.S. Army but is intended only 

to assist in identification of a specific product.

TA-349-0917

PREPARATION

• Wash hands

• Do NOT mix your raw and 

cooked ingredients

• Washing fruits and veggies in 

cold water

• Use separate and clean cutting 

boards and utensils for each dish 

to avoid cross-contamination

TRANSPORT and STORAGE

Keep HOT foods HOT 

• 140°F or warmer with a thermos or 

insulated container

Keep COLD foods COLD 

• 40°F or colder with an insulated 

lunchbox and ice packs or frozen drinks

CLEAN UP

• Refrigerate leftovers or throw 

them away

• Do NOT reuse paper lunch bags, 

sandwich bags, foil, or plastic 

wrap. Once used, these are 

contaminated and could cause 

you to get sick

Whether you’re off to school, work, or a picnic, follow these lunch-packing 

guidelines to ensure your bag lunch is safe to eat.

NON-PERISHABLE

No refrigeration needed

• Whole fruits

• PB&J sandwich

• Crackers

PERISHABLE

Must be kept COLD

• Lunchmeat

• Salads with tuna/egg

• Cheese

Food Safety Tips

SCHOOL

Packing a Safe and Satisfying Bag Lunch

> Content contributed by Joseph G. Williamson, VMD, MPH, DACVPM, Veterinary Services and Public Health Sanitation Directorate, Army Public Health Center