Explain the life cycle of parasites and its relationship to parasitic infestation, detection, and treatment.

Explanation should include

• stages of the life cycle of parasites
• ways the life cycle impacts parasitic infestation
• ways the life cycle impacts detection and treatment
• ways animals acquire parasites (e.g., ingestion, tissue migration, environmental exposure).

Process/Skill Questions:

• How is heartworm transmitted? How do veterinary professionals test for this disease? What is the treatment? What role, if any, does life cycle play in the transmission, testing, and treatment of heartworm?
• Why is heartworm usually fatal if not treated? What medical problems might a dog encounter after treatment for heartworm?
• Why are fecal samples important when diagnosing internal parasites?
• What are the similarities and differences between the indirect and direct life cycles of parasites?