Giardia Lamblia in Dogs

Giardia Lamblia, a small parasite, infects dogs of all breeds and ages. When this single-cell protozoa infects dogs, it may cause giardiasis and diarrhea. Prolonged diarrhea exhausts your dog and causes serious problems.

Source

Too tiny to be seen, giardia lamblia thrive in dirty or contaminated water but can be spread by contact or carried on dog hair. Commonly spread through feces, giardia is highly contagious and may be dormant in the dog for months.

Symptom

Your dog may show no signs of giardia lamblia infection. More often, the dog develops diarrhea or loose, yellow and greasy stools.

Significance

Giardia lamblia block the absorption of food in the intestines. The resulting diarrhea prevents the dog from getting needed food. Fatigue, dehydration and anemia follow, especially when the infection goes undetected for weeks.

Diagnosis

Detecting giardia lamblia requires laboratory testing. The vet may ask you to collect dog feces samples two or three times for a series of tests.

Treatment

Oral medications such as Flagyl, Panacur or similar medications are effective for most dogs. Follow vet directions for bathing your dog and washing its bedding and kennel.

References

• Giardia
• Giardiasis