Giardia are a type of parasite that affect both animals and humans. They consist of only one single cell and small tail-like structures called flagella that they use to move. An infection of giardia in a dog is called giardiasis.
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Causes
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Dogs contract giardia by swallowing water or coming in contact with dirt contaminated with cysts that contain the parasite. The giardia then reproduce inside the dog's digestive system and eventually form a new cyst around themselves and are released in its feces, where they can be spread to another dog.
Symptoms
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The most common symptom of giardia parasites in dogs is diarrhea, reports Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, but in some cases the condition causes no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis
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To diagnose a giardia parasite infection in dogs, veterinarians collect and analyze stool samples.
Time Frame
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Once a dog becomes infected with giardia, it takes five to 12 days for the parasites to be present in the animal's stool, reports Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.
Treatment
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To treat giardia parasites in dogs, veterinarians prescribe deworming medications like fenbendazole or metronidazole, explains Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. These drugs kill the parasite, ridding the dog of the infection.
Prevention
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If your dog develops giardia parasites, disinfect any hard surfaces the dog has come in contact with using bleach and water, suggests Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Make sure to bathe your dog regularly throughout treatment to prevent re-infection.
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