Giardia

Giardia are intestinal parasites (protozoans) that can cause severe diarrhea in pets.  Giardia is zoonotic (contagious to humans).  Giardia is primarily acquired by drinking contaminated water (for both pets and people).  Symptoms generally include a very soft stool with foul odor.  The diarrhea can be intermittent and chronic, eventually leading to severe debilitation of the pet.  It is diagnosed by an in-house snap test and sometimes confirmed with a fecal float or direct smear in water under the microscope.  Treatment is generally achieved in 7-8 consecutive days of oral medication.   Follow-up fecal flotation should always be done due to the threat of infecting people.