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DOGGY DAYCARE - for dogs of all breeds and sizes
Giardia in Dogs: A Guide to Understanding and Prevention
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Giardia is a parasite that can affect dogs' digestive systems. It is a common infection that particularly affects young dogs, dogs with weakened immune systems, or dogs living in close environments such as kennels or boarding kennels.
What is Giardia?
Giardia is a microscopic parasite that lives in the intestines of animals and humans. The parasite exists in two forms: an active form and a dormant form (cyst). It is mainly the cysts that cause infection, as they are excreted in feces and can survive for a long time in the environment, especially in moist environments.
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How many dogs naturally carry Giardia?
​It is estimated that up to 10-30% of dogs may be infected with Giardia, depending on environmental conditions and other risk factors. Many dogs can be carriers without showing symptoms, making it difficult to detect the infection without a test.
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How is Giardia transmitted?
​Giardia is primarily transmitted through ingestion of the parasite's cysts, which can be found in contaminated water, soil, food or feces. Dogs can also become infected if they lick their fur, paws or other surfaces that have been contaminated. Moist environments, such as puddles or common areas where many dogs roam, are particularly at risk.
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Symptoms of Giardia in Dogs
Not all dogs show symptoms, but when they do, they may include:
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Diarrhea (often with a slimy or greasy consistency)
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Feels with a rotten, rancid odor
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Severe flatulence
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Weight loss or failure to gain weight in young dogs
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Vomiting (in some cases)
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Fatigue and decreased energy
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Bloating and abdominal pain
​Symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go.
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How can you prevent Giardia?
There are several ways to minimize the risk of Giardia:
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Clean environment: Make sure your dog doesn't drink from standing water such as puddles or dirty bowls.
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Hygiene: Clean your dog's sleeping area, toys, and food bowls regularly.
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Feces: Remove feces promptly from the yard or public areas to prevent the spread of infection.
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Avoid close contact: Limit contact with other dogs if there are known Giardia outbreaks in the area.
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In general: Wash hands thoroughly after contact with feces or cleaning areas where the dog has been.
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Can food prevent Giardia?
There is no specific food that can prevent Giardia infection, but a high-quality food that supports the dog's immune system and intestinal flora can make it more resistant to infections in general. Dietary supplements that strengthen intestinal health, such as probiotics, can also be beneficial as part of prevention.
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Giardia feeds on sugar in the dog's intestines, which it consumes in the form of carbohydrates in its food. In particular, in cheap dry food, the carbohydrate content is often very high due to the grain it contains, which means that Giardia finds ideal living conditions in the dog's small intestine and can multiply unhindered.
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What to do if your dog gets Giardia?
If you suspect that your dog has Giardia, you should contact a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis is often made using one or more stool samples that is analyzed for the parasite. Treatment includes:
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Medication: Your veterinarian may prescribe antiparasitic medications such as fenbendazole or metronidazole.
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Hygiene: Thorough cleaning of the home, washing of carpets, and regular disinfection of surfaces to eliminate the infection.
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Follow-up treatment: Repeat treatment or follow-up testing may be necessary to ensure the infection is eliminated.
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Giardia is a challenging but manageable infection. With good hygiene and attention to symptoms, you can reduce the risk of your dog becoming infected. If your dog does become ill, prompt treatment and close cooperation with your veterinarian are essential to ensure his or her health.​
