Important information

Alert for dog health issues in the Melbourne area
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Information about Giardia

Giardia is a protozoan parasite that is infectious to both humans and pets. Once infected, the parasite inhibits the intestines ability to absorb nutrients, water and electrolytes.

Your dog must ingest the parasite to become infected. Water sources like puddles, wet grass or mud are the most common sources for Giardia infection.

Symptoms of Giardia include diarrhoea, weight loss, vomiting and dehydration.

Information about Gastroenteritis

Just like in humans, Gastroenteritis or Gastro is an umbrella term covering any cause of inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

While Gastroenteritis itself isn’t contagious, the cause of Gastro can be contagious.

Symptoms of Gastro include vomiting, reduced appetite, diarrhoea (sometime bloody) and lethargy.

Our advice

Our vet has advised all Handlers, Puppy Raisers and Breeding Stock Guardians to:

  • Watch for symptoms that may include those listed above
  • Keep pups and dogs away from dog free-run areas
  • Make sure your pup or dog has access to fresh clean drinking water
  • Avoid use of communal water-bowls
  • Discourage your pup or dog drinking from potential infectious sources, including themselves if they play in mud or wet grass (they may lick themselves, which can result in parasite ingestion)
  • Make sure your pup or dog is up to date with parasite control

If you have any concerns or notice any signs of the above symptoms, please consult your vet immediately.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to our teams, especially if you need to notify us of any incidence involving your pup or dog on 1800 804 805.

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