Dog and cat stool (poop) can contain
germs and may make people sick even when the pet appears healthy. Symptoms of Giardia infection in both people and pets can include diarrhea, gas, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. It is possible to be infected and have no signs or symptoms of illness.
If your dog has been identified as having giardia or you suspect that he may, you probably have many inquiries about giardia and want to learn more about what this means for your pet.
You can learn more about giardia and the symptoms it can cause for your pet in the article that follows. Additionally, you can discover more about the severity of this issue and what to anticipate if your pet contracts an infection.
Giardia is a particular kind of parasite, and the condition caused by it is known scientifically as giardiasis. Through an infected animal’s feces, the parasite that causes this condition is shed as cysts, allowing the cysts to contact the environment.
Animals can catch Giardia cysts by simply sniffing the feces or dirt where the parasite is present. It can also be transmitted through drinking infected water. Most adult dogs are thought to be giardia carriers due to the prevalence of these cysts, even if they do not exhibit symptoms.
Giardia is extremely contagious. Since it can spread to healthy animals through feces as soon as it leaves an infected animal’s body, it is frequently present in settings where numerous dogs are present at once. Giardia is frequently found in dog parks, kennels, and veterinary clinics.
Giardia can also be easily transmitted between household pets. Chances are good that your other dogs will quickly contract this parasite if your first dog gets it. It can be spread by licking, playing, sharing water and food bowls, and even just by walking through crowded areas.
What does Giardia poop look like in dogs?
Giardia in dogs typically causes soft bowel movements. There are times when it can range from moderately soft, like melted ice cream, to extremely severe diarrhea. So that’s the most common sign. Testing is crucial because occasionally you will find dogs who test positive for Giardia but have normal stool.
What happens when Giardia is untreated?
Some dogs can get quite sick. These could show variable levels of dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea. Younger dogs in the growth phase cannot develop to their full potential and eventually become wasteful. There are occasionally dogs that are able to suppress the Giardia on their own and don’t appear ill. Even so, it’s crucial to test for Giardia in a fecal sample and treat it if it’s found to be present because they may be spreading it to other dogs in the park.
Can I get Giardia from my dog licking me?
Fortunately, the likelihood of humans contracting Giardia from dogs is quite low. This is due to the fact that this parasite has seven different types (A through G). Cats and dogs are more likely to contract type F, while humans are more likely to contract types A and B. We advise washing your hands after handling dog poop and keeping your pet’s toys, water bowl, and food bowl clean as a whistle to reduce the risk, but it still could happen.
FAQ
Can a dog licking you give you Giardia?
Dogs, cats, and the majority of wild animals (e g. , ducks, geese, raccoons, squirrels). Because it can also be spread to people (by having an infected dog lick your face), it’s crucial that everyone in the family adhere to safety measures.
What are signs of Giardia in humans?
- Diarrhea.
- Gas.
- Foul-smelling, greasy poop that can float.
- Stomach cramps or pain.
- Upset stomach or nausea.
- Dehydration.
How do you get rid of Giardia in humans?
Several drugs can be used to treat Giardia infection. Effective treatments include metronidazole, tinidazole, and nitazoxanide. Other medications include paromomycin, quinacrine, and furazolidone. Certain of these medications might not be easily accessible in the United States.
How long are dogs contagious with Giardia?
This parasite is difficult to eradicate due to the difficulties in maintaining and thoroughly disinfecting the environment. You need to thoroughly clean and stay away from those areas whenever possible because contaminated soil or interior spaces can stay infectious for months in the right circumstances.