Ocorrência de giardia lamblia em material fecal canino coletados em uma ong em Erechim/RS

Abstract

Giardiasis is an intestinal parasitosis caused by the protozoan Giardia lamblia, with clinical and zoonotic relevance. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of Giardia lamblia in fecal samples from shelter dogs in an NGO located in Erechim/RS, Brazil. Four fecal collections were conducted from eight identified dogs, the last one after deworming. The samples were analyzed by optical microscopy using the Faust technique, and by a rapid immunochromatographic test. Fecal pH was also measured. The results indicated the presence of cysts in all samples before deworming and negative results after treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of the antiparasitic protocol. Statistical analysis showed significant variation in parasite load among the dogs and across the different collection times. The findings reinforce the importance of deworming, environmental hygiene, and parasitological monitoring in high-density canine environments.