GIARDIA
Giardia is a parasite that lives in many different and often unexpected sources. Your pet can be
infected with Giardia simply by drinking contaminated water or by licking its paws after walking in
an infected area. Once ingested, Giardia lives in the intestines of the pet, and is returned to the
environment through the pet's feces.
Giardia causes giardiasis. This disease frequently occurs in dogs and cats, and is the most
prevalent protozoal disease in humans according to Centers for Disease Control reports.
Symptoms of giardiasis in humans and pets include diarrhea, weight loss and poor weight gain
despite normal appetite. Many pets contract the disease and don't show signs of it. However, they
can pass the parasite to other animals. Although the potential for pain in infected pets is unknown,
humans with giardiasis can suffer from intense abdominal pain and cramping.
Dogs and cats are susceptible to disease caused by Giardia, especially puppies and kittens.
Their maturing immune system often leave them unable to protect themselves from diseases. As
a result, puppies and kittens are considered among the highest risk groups. Prevention programs
should start with them. Other pets with an increased risk of exposure include: Outdoor dogs/cats;
Multi-pet households; Pets in urban neighborhoods; Kenneled dogs/cats; Adopted dogs/cats;
Farm dogs/cats; Hunting dogs.
Certain areas also pose a high risk of exposure for pets, including: Dog shows; Parks;
Campgrounds; Suburbs/Cities; Beaches; Kennels; Pools; Playgrounds.
Giariadid is not limited to pets. Giardia can also affect humans, and recent discoveries suggest
that pet-to-human transmission is possible. While Giardia infection is a recognized zoonotic
disease, the role that the animal assumes in human disease is not well established.
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