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Old 05-05-2005, 05:01 AM   #16
red98vett
Yorkie Kisses are the Best!
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Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Houston TX
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You're SO WELCOME ~ I would talk to your vet on how to prevent it because you can take precautions...there's lots of info on the net also regarding it - it's pretty common but doesn't have to happen - the untreated puppies can die from this which is what we came close to have happen with Chanel - they just dehydrate sooo much - it's scary ...I'm NEVER forget being in the ER and hearing about it - It's a Single Cell Organism most common in very young puppies.

Here so you can read - hope this helps someone
How are coccidia transmitted?

A puppy is not born with the coccidia organisms in its intestine. However, once born, the puppy is frequently exposed to its mother's feces and if the mother is shedding the infective cysts in her feces then the young animals will likely ingest them and coccidia will develop within their intestines. Since young puppies, usually those less than six months of age, have no immunity to coccidia, the organisms reproduce in great numbers and parasitize the young animal's intestines. Oftentimes this has severe effects.

From exposure to the coccidia in feces to the onset of the illness is about 13 days. Most puppies who are ill from coccidia are, therefore, two weeks of age and older. Although most infections are the result of spread from the mother, this is not always the case. Any infected kitten or puppy is contagious to other puppies. In breeding facilities, shelters, animal hospitals, etc., it is wise to isolate those infected from those that are not.

What are the symptoms of coccidiosis?

The primary sign of an animal suffering with coccidiosis is diarrhea. The diarrhea may be mild to severe depending on the level of infection. Blood and mucous may be present, especially in advanced cases. Severely affected animals may also vomit, lose their appetite, become dehydrated, and in some instances, die from the disease.\

How is coccidiosis prevented or controlled?

Because coccidia is spread by the feces of carrier animals, it is very important to practice strict sanitation. All fecal material should be removed. Housing needs to be such that food and water cannot become contaminated with feces. Clean water should be provided at all times. Most disinfectants do not work well against coccidia; incineration of the feces, and steam cleaning, immersion in boiling water or a 10% ammonia solution are the best methods to kill coccidia. Coccidia can withstand freezing.

Last edited by red98vett; 05-05-2005 at 05:06 AM.
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