From the naturopathic practice, by Annette de Vogel

A persistent parasite

Giardia is one of the most common intestinal parasites in dogs, and simultaneously one of the most frustrating. It affects both owners and veterinarians. In my naturopathic practice, I regularly see dogs whose Giardia has a significant impact on their health and quality of life. Sometimes it's mild, but often it's severe and persistent. Catootje's story demonstrates the importance of looking beyond standard treatment.

What is Giardia?

Giardia (Giardia lamblia) is a microscopic parasite that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract of dogs (and humans). The parasite damages the intestinal lining and disrupts nutrient absorption. Transmission usually occurs through fecal matter: drinking contaminated water, licking paws or fur, or direct contact with other dogs.

Giardia is common in kennels, boarding houses, shelters and in dogs coming from abroad, but "normal" domestic dogs can also become infected.

Complaints and symptoms

Symptoms of Giardia can vary greatly, but common complaints include:

• Persistent or intermittent diarrhea

• Slimy, greasy, or strong-smelling stools

• Diarrhea with blood or black stools

• Abdominal cramps and visible discomfort

• Decreased appetite or complete inability to eat

• Weight loss

• Listlessness and low energy levels

In young dogs, older animals or dogs with reduced resistance, Giardia can quickly have serious consequences if not treated promptly.

Why Giardia is so difficult to treat

Giardia is a real headache for veterinarians. Although dogs can be vaccinated against it in the Netherlands, this vaccination doesn't offer complete protection. To the despair of many owners, dogs still become infected, sometimes repeatedly.

Standard treatment usually consists of the drug Panacur (fenbendazole). This drug has a parasiticidal effect and is routinely used for Giardia. In some cases, this is sufficient, but in practice, we often see that:

• The complaints return

• The parasite is not completely eradicated

• The intestinal flora is seriously disturbed

• Dogs actually become sicker from the treatment

Giardia therefore often requires more than just an antiparasitic agent.

Practical experience: Catootje

C a t ootje is a Romanian rescue dog, weighing less than 5 kilos and 3 years old. In Romania, she tested negative for Giardia. About six weeks after arriving in the Netherlands, she became infected.

When Catootje came to my practice, her condition was worrying. She had:

• Severe abdominal cramps

• Black stools and diarrhea with blood

• No appetite
  

Her owner had already been to the vet, where Catootje tested positive for Giardia. She was prescribed Panacur and stomach protectors. Despite this treatment, the situation escalated completely after two days: the diarrhea became bloody and the cramps worsened.

At that time Catootje came to our practice and we immediately opted for a natural, supportive approach , focused on the entire body.

Natural support for Giardia

1. Microbiome Balance

The first thing we used was Microbiome Balance , a powerful herbal tincture to support the gut microbiome.

Dosage: 2 drops twice a day

This tincture contains, among other things:

• Artemisia (wormwood/mugwort)

• Black walnut

• Clove

• Pau 'd Arco

Together, these herbs provide a comprehensive antiparasitic effect. They help tackle Giardia lamblia and other parasites without the harmful side effects often seen with conventional medications. At the same time, they support the gastrointestinal tract and help restore the microbiome.

2. CBD oil Black 420

In addition, CBD oil Black 420 from CBD Spain was used.

Dosage: 1 drop twice a day

CBD is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and calming effects . For Catootje, this was essential to:

• To inhibit intestinal inflammation

• To reduce cramps

• To support the recovery of the intestinal mucosa

3. Nutrition: from kibble to fresh meat

The diet was also immediately changed from kibble to fresh meat . This is a crucial step for Giardia.

Why?

• Chunks often contain carbohydrates that “feed” Giardia

• Fresh meat is more digestible

• It supports a healthier intestinal flora

• It puts less strain on the gastrointestinal tract

With Giardia, nutrition is not an afterthought, but an essential part of recovery.

The result

Catootje's body's response was impressive. The symptoms disappeared almost immediately:

• She went back to eat

• The stool became firm and normal in color

• The cramps disappeared completely

A giardia test was performed again one week later, and it was negative . To date, the symptoms have not returned.

Finally

Giardia is a persistent parasite that often requires more than just standard treatment. The experience with Catootje demonstrates how important it is to:

• To support the microbiome

• Tackling inflammation

• Choosing the right nutrition

• Viewing the body as a whole

Natural support can be a valuable addition, especially when conventional treatments are insufficient.

This blog is based on practical experience in naturopathy and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.