An environmental non-profit organisation, Parkscape, has urged dog-owners to be weary of the dogs playing in river at the Tokai forest. This, as an increase in the number of dogs with gastro-intestinal infections has been reported.
Parkscape chairperson, Nicky Schmidt, said their investigations note an uptick in cases since March. She said there’s reason to believe that the infection is directly linked to dogs swimming in or playing around the river.
Schmidt has also advised that this is a seasonal issue.
“Every year, when the river starts to dry up, there are pools and it starts to stagnate. And when they start to stagnate, parasite and bacteria levels increase. One of the parasites we tend to find is Giardia.”
Giardia
Schmidt said Giardia results in Giardiasis, which is one of the gastro-intestinal infection that can be found in dogs.
Lara Black, of TEARS Animal Rescue, said it’s also noted an increase in the number of dogs its treating with this infection. However, Black said the organisation is not able to prove that the parasite stems from any particular environment.
Symptoms of Giardia include severe diarrhoea. Black said little can be done to prevent dogs from ingesting the parasite (after its played in murky or stagnant waters). She has advised pet owners to seek treatment at a vet, as soon as symptoms show.
“In most cases, dogs can self-cure. But, once there’s severe diarrhoea it’s important to seek treatment – which will include antibiotics and deworming medication. It’s important that pet owners seek timeous veterinary support… especially in puppies and older dogs as it can be fatal, if left untreated.”
Humans can also be infected with the Giardia parasite, but according to Black, practicing good hygiene can prevent contracting the parasite.
“By practicing good hygiene and washing ones’ hands after handling your dog poop, it’s unlikely that a pet owner will contract Giardia. Transmission in humans commonly occurs via drinking water and not from pets.”
Where is Giardia found?
Schmidt has advised dog-owners to avoid the river at the Tokai forest with their furry friends. However, she said the parasite can be found elsewhere.
“It can be found in any of the mountain streams that come off Table Mountain… It can be found in any number of places. My understanding is that it is carried by guinea fowl and hadedas, and other bird species.”
