I'm getting a four month mix German Shepherd female rescue dog that is being treated for cocidium. I want to make sure & do what I can to get her healthy. Ideas?

Hi Dee,

Cocidium is an intestinal parasite the dogs can transmit to each other through stool. Dogs can be carriers of this parasite for years before it's symptoms show. Signs of cocidium often include loose stool with blood or mucous. Symptoms tend to manifest after moments of stress in one's life for example a new home, new parents, long car trips, overcrowding in a kennel environment or during weaning. Cocidium is controllable and curable with prescriptions that your vet can prescribed.

For further care and prevention at home keep your puppy isolated from other four legged members of the family until treatment is complete. Be sure to clean up any stool immediately after the puppy has defecated. Ensure that the puppy remains clean. If she steps in any of her stool bath her immediately. If she soils in her kennel or on other surfaces try to clean them down with a mixture of bleach and water. I would keep her on a simple bland diet to help her digestively until her symptoms get better with medication. California Natural has a Lamb and Rice puppy food that would most likely work for her.

There is definitely more technical information available on this parasite if you Google "Cocidium in canines" that can help you better understand what you will be dealing with and what she is going though. I have experience with dogs in the past that have had giardia with is another parasite that is as prevalent as cocidium. After a round of medication the dog(s) fully recovered.

Congratulations on your new four legged friend and good luck!

"The Chuck"
Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet