Giardia can potentially spread from dogs
to humans. It is curable, but unpleasant.
Image: iStockphoto

A study by Murdoch’s School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences has found that almost 10 per cent of all dogs are infected with a parasite that can potentially infect their owners.

The groundbreaking research is Australia’s first national study of gastrointestinal parasites in pet dogs, which found almost one in 10 infected with giardia.

“As a result of these new findings dog owners should be aware of the signs of giardia and how to prevent infection in their pets,” said Murdoch’s Head of Parasitology, Professor Andrew Thompson.

“Until now, the level of parasite infection in Australian dogs was unknown and yet more than 50 per cent of Australian households have a dog or cat.”

Giardia can potentially infect humans, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, bloating, tiredness and weight loss.

The study of 1400 dogs in veterinary clinics and shelters across Australia, undertaken by Murdoch’s PhD student Carly Palmer, found that overall, 23.9 per cent of dogs were infected with an intestinal parasite.

Giardia was the most common and found in 9.3 per cent of the dogs, particularly in dogs under two years of age.

Professor Thompson said giardia is spread between dogs via infected faeces, causing diarrhoea and weight loss. The infective stages can lie dormant in soil and water and potentially infect humans.

“Drinking contaminated water, or ingesting the parasites by putting contaminated fingers in the mouth are common ways of becoming infected,” Professor Thompson said.

“If you suspect that your dog may be infected with giardia, it is important you visit your local vet for a full diagnosis.”