by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: February 22, 2010

Giardia are a one celled parasitic protozoan which live in the small intestines of infected dogs. Once infected with giardia the dog will be a carrier of the parasites for life. The parasites form a small hard shelled cyst that allows them to survive in the intestines for a long period of time. An infestation of giradia is called giardiasis. Giardia are released from the intestinal walls during times of stress and by animals with a weak immune system. Once released the giardia reproduce and travel through the dog’s body causing visible symptoms.

Symptoms of giardiasis include green or bloody diarrhea. Diarrhea is often the first sign of giardia. Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration.  Monitor your dog’s water intake carefully and provide fresh water at all times.  An infected dog’s  feces may also be soft, light colored and greasy or contain a mucus discharge. A dog with giardia may have excess gas and abdominal tenderness. He may also appear listless and have a loss of appetite.

Consult a veterinarian if you observe signs of a giradia infection.  The veterinarian will request several fecal samples collected over a period of 48 to 72 hours. She will then test the samples to determine the presence of the parasite.

Treatment includes the medications Flagyl (metronidazole) or Panacur (fenbendazole). Flagyl is approximately 60 to 70 percent effective in alleviating symptoms of giardiasis. Possible side effects of Flagyl are vomiting, anorexia, liver toxicity and neurological issues. Flagyl should not be given to pregnant dogs. Panacur is a newer treatment for giardiasis. It is considered safe for animals as young as six weeks old. Prescriptions for these medications usually recommend a course of treatment covering two to ten days. Give your dog the complete prescription. Do not stop the prescription early without consulting the veterinarian. Homeopathic methods of giardia treatment are available. Goldenseal is recommended as natural treatment for giardiasis. All medications, both prescription and homeopathic, should be discussed with your veterinarian prior to beginning treatment.  

If your dog has diarrhea clean their anal area with fresh water and a dog shampoo. Prevent the infected water from entering your eyes, nose or mouth. Clean the dog’s sleeping area and anywhere they spend time in the house. Steam cleaning is an effective method. Bleach. Lysol and ammonia may also fight against giardia. Wash your hands after picking up feces.

Giardiasis can cause damage to your dog's intestinal lining and may interfere with their digestion. Discuss any possible infection with your veterinarian.

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