Tortoise has worms. Are they contagious to people or other pets?

Question

Hi, My friend was tortoise-sitting for us while on vacation. We just got "Torty" back & discovered he's infected with worms (very long white worms). Do I need to warn my friend? Could the worms infect her children or have been transmitted to our tortoise by her children? As a note, she has an acquatic turtle which had brief contact with our tortoise. Also, we have a large garden behind our home, will the infection clear on its own now that Torty is outside, or do we need to treat him?

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Yes, you should tell your friend about the worms. Intestinal parasites are quite common & over time can cause some serious problems for your tortoise, as well as your friend's. It is important to check a fresh stool sample, at least twice a year, & deworm your pets with an appropriate medication. This should be a part of the routine care that should be given to all tortoises. As for the children, hopefully they know to wash their hands after handling any animals, as all parasites & most other infectious diseases are transmitted through the fecal oral route. Hope this helps. Take care.

Tortoise has worms. Are they contagious to people or other pets?

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