Giardia in dogs is a condition that occurs when the parasite, known as giardia, is ingested by your dog. After your dog ingests the parasite, it then travels to the intestinal tract where it remains. The giardia parasite consists of a small cyst-like structure which ruptures when it enters the small intestine. The rupturing of the cyst allows the bacteria to begin multiplying quickly.
As the bacteria continue multiplying, they attach themselves to the wall of the intestine and begin smartly building walls around themselves. These walls allow them to remain attached, but also allow their counterparts to be passed on through defecation. When all of this occurs, the infection of giardia becomes active.
Causes
The only means of transmission for the giardia parasite are through contaminated water or directly through the infestation of feces. Because the giardia parasite builds that wall around itself, it is able to maintain its composure and survive in feces. When your dog either eats his infected feces, or that of another animal, he can become actively infected by giardia. Likewise, if your spends time drinking from commonly contaminated water sources, such as lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, it is likely that he will be infected. If there is any trace of contamination in the water, your dog is at risk for ingesting the parasite.
While giardia is thought to be a common occurrence of parasitic infection in dogs, it seems to be more common in dogs that spent excessive amounts of time outdoors, or those dogs which live outdoors.
It is important to note that contaminated feces can come from any other animal, such as beavers, rabbits and cats. The giardia parasite is not limited to surviving only in the feces of a dog.
Effects
Giardia causes an infection which does more harm over time than it does in the present time. Soon after your dog becomes infected, you will probably notice that your dog has developed a bad case of diarrhea. However, it is important to know that giardia does not present what you would consider to be normal diarrhea. The diarrhea associated with giardia is typically more liquid-like and has a very foal smell.
Over time, because the parasite interferes with your dog's ability to properly absorb nutrition, you may notice a chronic loss of weight and his coat may appear dull and unkempt. If the condition is allowed to progress to a very severe state, it could cause a state of starvation in your dog.
Treatment with Paraguard
Paraguard is a tablet form deworming supplement which provides protection against various different intestinal parasites; such as whipworms, tapeworms, hookworms and roundworms. It is also extremely effective at wiping out all giardia parasitic bacteria from the intestines.
Paraguard can be given once every month to ensure maximum allowable protection. Because this is a natural supplement, there is no prescription required for its administration. It can be used in combination with other medications and treatments and most dogs do not encounter any side effects with its usage.