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Days and days of rain deprives the furriest (and most excitable) member of the family from their favourite place - the park. But when they're finally reunited, they might just notice a surprise waiting in those highly enticing puddles!
Yep, a microscopic menace is lurking in that very appealing...and very brown water. And it's unleashing a wave of gut upsets...
Here’s how you can help avoid problems…
After a warm summer, a sudden burst of rain washes everything from dog poop to pesticides, herbicides and parasites (like Giardia) into those puddles. In fact, drinking puddle water is the major cause of those Autumn gut upsets.
In flood affected areas, the result is even more dramatic. Ultimately, what seems like a convenient (and probably flavour-filled) drink from a puddle, is actually laden with gastro causing bugs.
Outbreaks of Giardia and E. Coli are even being seen with stomach cramps, vomiting and lots of diarrhoea the very uncomfortable result.
So what can you do? Well, avoid these puddles at all costs and only drink from water bowls and taps. Areas frequented by other dogs and close to storm water pipes are the most dangerous.
Dr Chris' tips:
If you think your dog has a gut upset, it's important to stabilise and soothe that digestive system.
1. Giving Tummy Tamer probiotic paste three times a day will line the irritated gut with a soothing formula while providing a hit of good gut bacteria to bring the rogue bugs back into line.
2. Removing all food for 12-24 hours will also help. If they don’t improve then see your vet immediately.
Those puddles might just appear as one big tasty, playful surprise but the effect of a slurp can linger on for days and even weeks...
