What is Giardia in dogs and cats?

Giardia is a gastrointestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia lamblia. This is a common parasite causing gastrointestinal illness. It is found in the stools of many animals, including rodents, dogs, cats, cattle, and wild animals.

A Giardia infection can be acquired when your pet ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the parasite and then multiplies in the small intestine. The infection can also be spread person-to-person when hands, which are contaminated with an infected person’s stool, are brought in contact with the mouth. Swallowing as few as ten parasites can cause the infection.

Symptoms of Giardia include:

• Diarrhea
• Foul smelling stools
• Greasy stools
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Increased gas
• Weakness
• Weight loss

These symptoms are very similar to Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) and Colitis, so it is essential that your pet be tested for this parasite.  Giardia is usually diagnosed through a laboratory examination of a stool sample. Your veterinarian will forward the stool sample to a laboratory that will use a microscope to look for the parasite. Several stool samples need to be examined to detect the parasite.

It is imperative your pet be treated for Giardia.  Because Giardia is common, it is recommended you treat your pet at least one time monthly.  For the natural treatment of Giardia, Purely Pets recommends Giardia & Parasitic d’tox.

Giardia & Parasitic d’Tox herbal extract supplement contains all-natural ingredients to help defend your pet’s body against a wide range of worms, amoebas, and parasites, including heartworm. This herbal remedy can be used safely to clean out the colon, even with IBS, when parasites are the suspected trigger. This extract can also be used internally, as well as topically, to address parasitic fungal and yeast growth.

Ingredients:  Contains a proprietary blend of Wormwood, Quassia Bark, Black Walnut Hulls, Neem Leaves, Bilva Herb, Embelia Ribes, Eclipta Alba, Phyllanthus Amarus, Gentian Root, Ginger Root, Grain Alcohol, and Spring Water.

Directions: Use 1 drop per 5 lbs. of body weight 3 times daily.   

IMPORTANT!  The recommendations in this article are general suggestions for treating your pet naturally.  It is important to look at each pet individually and determine what works best for YOUR pet. 

I would highly consider a phone consultation.  A consultation will include a personalized diet and holistic program suggestions, all custom-tailored to your pet’s personal needs. This is particularly imperative in pets with complicated health issues, or if you’ve done outside reading and have conflicting information. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Purely Pets today!