Giardia
While running free in Mexico, my dogs drank from all kinds of water sources, including dirty rivers. It was important that they have all of their vaccinations, including one for Giardia, a parasite that can cause diarrhea and other symptoms.
However, it’s important to note that dogs can also pick up Giardia from any contaminated food or water source, even rivers running through your city. According to The Pet Center, “Giardia is transmitted from one dog to another through the ingestion of cysts in contaminated feed or drinking water. Cysts may also be found in streams or other water sources.”
Reading at GoLetAVet.com, I learned that Giardia “can be found anywhere from puddles and ponds to swimming pools and streams. Your pet can contract the disease by drinking contaminated water, or even by licking his paws after walking in an infected area!”
The Government of Alberta has a page that answers the basic questions you might have about Giardia, and your vet should be able to tell you about vaccinations and help you determine whether your dog needs them.
