Why Routine Fecal Testing Matters: Raising the Standard of Care at Red Fern

Why Routine Fecal Testing Matters: Raising the Standard of Care at Red Fern

At Red Fern Pet Lodge, the health and safety of every dog in our care is our top priority. As part of our ongoing commitment to providing a clean, safe, and enriching environment, we are implementing a new policy requiring all dogs to have a negative fecal test twice per year.

We understand that any new requirement can come with questions, so we want to share why this matters—not just for our facility, but for your dog and every dog they interact with.

From Our Wellness Coordinator

My name is McKayla Ramsey, and I serve as Red Fern’s Wellness Coordinator—a role created specifically to oversee the health, safety, and overall well-being of every dog in our care.

My day-to-day focus includes monitoring health conditions, supporting proper sanitation practices, administering medications when needed, and ensuring each dog receives not only physical care, but also emotional enrichment. Every policy we implement is rooted in one goal: creating the safest and most supportive environment possible for your dog.

This updated fecal testing requirement is one of the many proactive steps we take to protect the dogs entrusted to us.

What Is a Fecal Test?

A fecal test is a simple veterinary screening that checks your dog’s stool for intestinal parasites. These parasites can include:

• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Whipworms
• Giardia

Many of these parasites are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye, meaning a dog can appear perfectly healthy while still carrying and shedding parasites.

Why Fecal Testing Is So Important

Dogs are naturally social animals—and in a group setting like daycare or boarding, they share space, play areas, and sometimes even water sources. This makes it easier for parasites to spread if they go undetected.

Routine fecal testing helps us:

• Prevent the spread of intestinal parasites before it starts
• Protect dogs with developing or sensitive immune systems
• Maintain a clean and sanitary play environment
• Ensure early detection and treatment, even in symptom-free dogs

In short, it’s one of the most effective ways to keep our entire community healthy.

Why Twice a Year?

Veterinarians widely recommend fecal testing every 6–12 months, depending on a dog’s lifestyle. Because many of our guests are highly social and frequently interact with other dogs, we’ve chosen a twice-yearly requirement to align with best practices for group care environments.

This frequency allows us to:

• Catch infections early
• Reduce the risk of reinfection cycles
• Maintain consistently high health standards across our facility

Making It Easy: Fecal Testing at Red Fern

To make this process as simple and stress-free as possible, Red Fern is excited to announce we now offer fecal testing directly through our facility.

We know that collecting samples and coordinating vet visits can be inconvenient, so we’ve created a solution that takes the burden off of you. Our team can handle the process for you—from collection to submission—so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

This means:

• No need to collect or transport samples yourself
• No extra errands or scheduling challenges
• Confidence that your dog’s testing is handled professionally and on time

It’s just one more way we’re working to provide a seamless, elevated experience for both you and your dog.

Our Commitment to a Higher Standard

At Red Fern, we don’t just meet basic requirements—we aim to exceed them.

From our cleaning protocols to our staff training to our spacious play areas, every detail is designed with your dog’s well-being in mind. This updated fecal testing policy is simply another step in ensuring that when your dog is with us, they are in the safest, healthiest environment possible.

What This Means for You

• Please submit proof of a negative fecal test every 6 months
• Or opt into testing directly through Red Fern for added convenience
• If you have questions, our team is happy to help guide you

A Final Note from Our Wellness Team

Caring for dogs is more than a responsibility—it’s something we take to heart every single day.

As Wellness Coordinator, I am committed to advocating for each dog’s health, comfort, and happiness while they are in our care. Policies like routine fecal testing may seem small, but they play a critical role in protecting not just individual dogs, but our entire community.

Thank you for trusting us with your pets and for partnering with us in maintaining the highest standards of care.

— McKayla Ramsey, Wellness Coordinator at Red Fern Pet Lodge