How To Prevent The Long-Term Effects Of Giardia in Dogs
Giardia, worms and parasites, as well as anti-parasitic medications from your veterinarian can cause intestinal irritation and inflammation. Giardia is a common parasitic infection in dogs that can cause lasting damage to the intestinal tract, extending beyond the initial illness. Pets affected with giardia will need some natural aftercare to support their digestive and immune health. Long-term effects of giardia in dogs may include irritation and inflammation in the intestinal lining and subsequent weakening of the immune system. Some dogs may be prone to reinfestations (referred to as chronic giardia in dogs) and develop IBS and allergies as a result of the intestinal inflammation. Probiotics, digestive enzymes and herbal remedies like olive leaf and oregano can help repair the intestinal lining, rebalance gut flora, and reduce inflammation. By addressing these issues, you can help your pup fully recover and minimize any long-term effects of giardia in dogs.
Symptoms Of Giardia in Dogs
Giardia is a protozoal infection (parasite) of the intestines that is transmitted by water or fecal ingestion. It can be easily transmitted, even at the nicest facilities and pet social areas. Giardia spreads through giardia cysts which are passed through cat or dog feces and other animals then get exposed by ingesting them. It can spread very quickly to other pets (and while risk is low, it can be transmitted to humans), so it is important to be proactive in preventing and treating giardia. Pet owners need to be vigilant to keep animals separated and clean up quickly after the pet defecates. Common signs of giardia include:
- Intermittent or continual diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss or failure to gain weight
- Dehydration
- Lackluster coat
- Bloody diarrhea
Long Term Effects Of Giardia in Dogs
Giardia can have long-term effects on dogs beyond just irritation and inflammation in the intestinal lining. Giardia infections can also significantly impact the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. The giardia parasite can disrupt the balance of these beneficial bacteria, leading to dysbiosis - a condition where harmful bacteria outnumber the good ones. This imbalance often makes dogs more susceptible to reinfestations, commonly referred to as chronic giardia in dogs, and may contribute to the development of IBS and allergies due to ongoing intestinal inflammation.
Many pet owners report that their dogs experience increased sensitivities to foods, allergy symptoms, and recurring bouts of diarrhea and loose stool (IBS symptoms) after a giardia infection. Repairing the intestinal lining is essential to help prevent the long-term effects of giardia in dogs. Scientists have studied* the long-term effects of giardia in people and determined that it can lead to allergies, development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), arthritis and other health issues. Restoring the gut microbiome through proper diet, probiotics, and natural supplements is essential to help reduce the risk of the long-term effects of giardia in dogs.
*Reference: Research study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2013 Dec 21; 19(47): 8974–8985. Extra-intestinal and long term consequences of Giardia duodenalis infections. Marie CM Halliez and André G Buret.
Treatment For Giardia in Dogs
Giardia treatment in dogs needs to be a multipronged approach. While medications may kill giardia, the infestation can have a long-term effect on your dog's digestive system and bowel function (many pets may be diagnosed with IBD later in life). The giardia parasites and the medications used to treat them can irritate and inflame your dog's digestive tract.
It is important to use both conventional treatments from your veterinarian along with an aftercare treatment plan using natural remedies and good hygiene to prevent reinfestation and help heal your dog's intestinal lining. Effective treatment of giardia includes:
- Antiparasitic medications prescribed by your veterinarian
- Good hygiene to prevent reinfestation
- Natural giardia treatments to repair and rebuild your dog's intestinal tract
Natural Treatments For Giardia & Parasites
 IBD Kit - Our IBD Kit includes three unique supplements specially designed to calm and soothe the digestive tract, firm up stool, relieve tummy rumbling and reduce gas, mucus and bloody stool. The Kit includes Power Probiotic, Soothing Digestive Relief and NOT Anti-Inflammatory Drops. These products are ideal for pets with IBD, IBS and long-term intestinal inflammation from giardia or other parasites. They are gentle and easy to use. Each natural remedy may be purchased separately, but dog owners have seen the best results using all 3 digestive supplements together.
 K9 Yeast Defense - K9 Yeast Defense provides advanced gastrointestinal support for dogs that have been exposed to or treated for worms, parasites or giardia. This leading digestive health supplement is a specially formulated herbal blend containing grapefruit seed extract (GSE), pau d'arco, garlic bulb and caprylic acid. Dogs that have had giardia and parasites frequently develop a weakened digestive system as a result of the inflammation and irritation of the lining of the intestinal tract. It is not uncommon for these pets to develop food sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or yeast overgrowth. Using K9 Yeast Defense along with Power Probiotic can help restore healthy digestive and immune function.
 Power Probiotic - Power Probiotic is the best probiotic when a puppy has giardia and the best probiotic for pets overall. Backed by scientific research, this powerful multi-strain formula promotes the growth of friendly bacteria that are essential for a healthy microbiome and immune system. Probiotics support digestion, help fight infection and enhance overall immunity. It’s critical to use Power Probiotic if your pet has taken antibiotics, steroids or anti-parasitic medications, as these can deplete the friendly bacteria needed for a healthy immune and digestive system. Many dogs love the taste of Power Probiotic.
How To Prevent Giardia Reinfestation in Dogs
- Wash your dog and their bedding several times during the first two weeks of the treatment period.
- Use a baby wipe or wet paper towel and gloves to wipe your dog's rear end after defecation.
- Reinfestation is a HUGE PROBLEM. If at all possible, keep your infected pet separated in an isolated area. You may want to ask your veterinarian about proactively treating other pets, although the medications can be harsh. Be sure your infected pet only urinates and defecates in an isolated area (no grass is best) away from where other pets may go.
- ALWAYS wear gloves when picking up stool infested with giardia or parasites/worms, and then throw the baggie into another baggie with a tie on top. Immediately pick up the stool if possible. Giardia can get into the ground, concrete, etc.
- After you clean up the area, use bleach or a cleaning product containing bleach. Wash your shoes after walking on the infected area.
- Keep children, workers, pets and housekeepers away from the trash.
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