Veterinary Parasitology
by Gregory V. LaMann
July 2010
Veterinary parasitology is the study of animal parasites, especially relationships between parasites and animal hosts, and their interactions. Parasites of domestic animals (livestock and pet animals) as well as wildlife animals are considered. Veterinary parasitology studies genesis and development of parasitoses in animal host. Veterinary parasitology also studies taxonomy and systematics of parasites, morphology, life cycles, and living needs of parasites in environment and in animal host. Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of animal parasitoses are designed using procured observations. Data obtained from parasitological research in animals helps in veterinary practice and improve animal breeding. Major goal of veterinary parasitology is to protect animals and improve their health status. Moreover, a number of animal parasites are transmitted to humans. Therefore, veterinary parasitology is also important for public health.
