Giardia. Don't overlook this micro menace.
Giardia, is a microscopic parasite found all over the world. While it's most commonly carried and passed on by domestic and wild animals, it is transmittable to humans and can be very dangerous. Giardia infects as much as 20 percent of the world's population and may be found in as many as 12% of domestic pets. It has been linked to many of the waterborne cases of diarrhea in humans in the U.S.A and other countries.
Giardia is carried in a host's body until it is randomly shed out through the carrier's feces. It thrives in the moist conditions of animal waste and other wet areas such as stagnant or slow moving water. When ingested, the parasite attaches itself to the intestinal lining of its living host. There it may remain for a very long time, ultimately potentially causing serious health problems as it slowly erodes away the lining. Symptoms of infection include diarrhea with or without traces of blood, depression, weight loss, loss or decreased appetite, and vomiting. If left untreated it may result in an increase in infections and possibly more health issues or death.
Although this parasite can easily be transmitted from a contaminated source to you or your pet, there are some easy steps to follow to avoid infection. The first step is prevention. Regularly pick up all waste from your yard or other living areas near your home. When you are out in public places, or in the wilderness, stay away from animal waste, especially livestock feces. Do not drink stagnant water or water that may be used by potentially infected wild animals or livestock, such as lakes, ponds and streams. If you or your pet has to drink from outdoor water sources, treat the water first with iodine tablets. Used correctly, iodine will eliminate Giardia.
Secondly, wash your dog and yourself thoroughly with soap and water if you have come in contact with animal feces. Use a bleach solution (about four ounces of bleach to one gallon of water) to disinfect items and areas around your home that may be a breeding ground for the parasite. After applying the bleach, make sure to thoroughly rinse these areas with clean water before you or your dog return to the area or use any of the items.
Finally, if you or your pet become infected with the organism seek medical treatment right away. There are highly effective vaccines available to treat you and your pet if needed.
Written by Jamie J. DeBenedetto - Feb. 2003
Facts and data gathered from the Banfield Pet Hospital Guide to Giardia and various
internet sources. Copyrite 2003.