Giardia is a harmful parasite that can infect our canine companions. Our dogs can be infected through sniffing or eating infected poop, and through drinking water which has been infected through parasitic poop.
This parasite can also occur in humans, but our dogs can get it just from playing in infected soil and spread it just as easily. The symptoms associated with giardia infection are diarrhea, vomiting, gas, weight loss, and cramps or abdominal pain. So, what should you do if you suspect your precious pooch has been infected? There are a few steps you can take, and these are as follows:
- If diarrhea does not clear up after a few days, take your canine companion to the vet to be checked out. Your vet will most likely inspect the situation, take a stool sample if giardia is suspected, and do repeat samples after the infection has been treated (this is to check if the infection has cleared)
- Wash all the washable doggo furniture and comfort items, preferably dried on the highest heat setting too
- Clean all food and water bowls, as well as toys, in with warm water and soap
- Keep your floors and furniture as clean as possible, on a regular basis
- Give your four-legged family member a thorough clean
Although not all dogs show symptoms of this parasitic infection, if you have any suspicions about them being infected, you can follow the advice listed above. Our furry-faced friends are important to us, and just as important is their health and well-being too!
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