Giardia in dogs is a common parasitic infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis. This microscopic organism inhabits the intestines and causes a condition known as giardiasis. Giardia can infect dogs of all ages and breeds, leading to gastrointestinal issues and other health complications.
What is giardia in dogs?
Giardia in dogs is a common parasitic infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis. This microscopic organism inhabits the intestines and causes a condition known as giardiasis.
Giardia can infect dogs of all ages and breeds, leading to gastrointestinal issues and other health complications.
What are the symptoms of giardia in dogs?
If your dog is showing concerning symptoms of illness, your best bet is to book an appointment with your vet, since many of the signs below are common to several conditions. That said, owners can be on the lookout for several giardia symptoms in dogs, including:
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
- Poor coat appearance
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Diarrhea and weight loss are common symptoms of parasitic infection because the parasite disrupts a dog's internal systems, impairing its ability to absorb water, electrolytes, and nutrients. Diarrhea can be continuous or intermittent, particularly in puppies. Severe weight loss and even death can occur if the disease is not diagnosed and treated.
How are dogs infected with giardia?
As previously stated, this single-celled parasite lives in the intestines of mammals, birds, and amphibians and has several subspecies. While each subspecies focuses on a different group of animals, they all share the same lifecycle and transmission mode.
Giardia has two stages in its lifecycle. Mature parasites (trophozoites) multiply and form cysts in the small intestine. Cysts become infective and are shed through the feces of an infected animal. They can survive in the environment as cysts for weeks before another animal ingests them. They are then transformed into trophozoites, and their lifecycle is repeated.
If giardia is left untreated in dogs, it may cause severe, watery diarrhea that can be fatal. This is especially true for puppies and older dogs.
Can I get giardia from my dog licking me?
Giardia is a zoonotic parasite that can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, the risk of contracting giardia from your dog licking you is relatively low.
The primary mode of transmission to humans is ingesting contaminated water or food or coming into direct contact with infected feces.
Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling your dog or cleaning up after them, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
How is giardia treated?
If you notice that your dog is experiencing diarrhea or other symptoms, it's important to contact your vet immediately. Your vet will probably conduct a series of diagnostic tests to determine whether your dog has giardia. Based on the results and the seriousness of your dog's condition, a personalized treatment plan can be created to address your dog's needs.
What happens if giardia is left untreated in dogs?
If left untreated, giardia can lead to severe dehydration, malnutrition, and weight loss due to chronic diarrhea. The condition can be particularly dangerous in puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems. Persistent giardiasis can also damage the intestinal lining, leading to long-term gastrointestinal issues.
How to prevent a dog from getting giardia
Giardia is a highly unpleasant parasite that cannot be prevented with the tick, flea, and heartworm preventatives your dog would normally receive from a veterinarian. There are precautions you can take to keep your dog from contracting giardia.
Bathing all household animals regularly is recommended to remove cysts from the hair coat. You should also disinfect your pets' surroundings (crates, beds, etc.) and wash their water and food bowls daily.
Cleaning should be done at least a few days after all pets in the household have completed their medication.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.