How are Giardia and Coccidia most commonly transmitted in dogs?

• A. Through feces or water containing fecal matter
• B. Through direct skin contact with an infected animal
• C. Through prolonged exposure to cold temperatures
• D. Through vaccination

Answer: (A)

Both Giardia and Coccidia spread mainly through the fecal-oral route. Dogs become infected when they swallow cysts or oocysts that are shed in the feces of an infected animal, which can contaminate water, food, or surfaces in the environment. Once ingested, these stages establish infection in the intestines. That’s why the common route is through contaminated water or fecal matter, not through direct skin contact, exposure to cold, or vaccination. Keeping water sources clean, removing feces promptly, and maintaining good sanitation in the dog's environment are key to reducing transmission.