We all love the warmer temps, but when things heat up, so do some common communicable diseases! Here’s what you should look out for this summer!

GIARDIA

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal illness known as giardiasis. Giardia is found on surfaces or in soil, food, or water that has been contaminated with feces (poop) from infected humans or animals.

Symptoms are more visible in younger animals than in older animals and can be either sudden (acute), temporary (transient), non-continuous (intermittent) , or ongoing (chronic) in nature. Dogs may exhibit diarrhea that is soft, frothy, greasy, and with a strong, awful odor or excessive mucus.

Please be on the lookout for any of these symptoms. If we notice anything questionable at Dogwood we will separate your dog, notify you, and ask that you provide a stool sample for testing at your veterinary clinic.

If your dog tests positive for Giardia we require that your dog completes a round of antibiotics and retests negatively for the parasite. To reduce the risk of re-infection, we must receive proof of the negative fecal test prior to returning.

KENNEL COUGH

Kennel cough is is a contagious virus (similar to the human cold virus), and can spread quickly and easily. It spreads rapidly when dogs are in a pack; senior dogs and puppies are at greatest risk of contracting it.

Kennel cough causes a persistent, nonproductive cough that may sound as if something is caught in your pet’s throat or like they are gagging or trying to clear their throat, it has also been described as a deep honking cough.

Symptoms usually develop three to ten days after exposure to an infected animal. If you think your dog may have kennel cough, see your veterinarian as soon as possible, and please do not bring your dog into daycare if you suspect he or she may have contracted the virus.

Please be on the lookout for any of these symptoms. If we notice anything questionable at Dogwood we will separate your dog, notify you, and ask that you pick your dog up and bring to your veterinary clinic. Please let your vet know that your dog has been exposed to dogs with kennel cough at daycare, as sometimes it’s confused with allergies.

If your dog is diagnosed we require that your dog completes a round of antibiotics and is no longer coughing.