Compiled in collaboration with veterinarians, laboratories, and based on the experiences of many of our customers.
A personal note from us: Just this week, two customers came to us who had adopted a puppy from a Romanian animal shelter. This was the exact reason for this article. We want to provide honest information – even if it sometimes involves uncomfortable truths.
Dream Start or Shock? The Truth About Dogs From Abroad
More and more dogs are coming to us from abroad – whether puppies or adult dogs, whether from Romania, Spain, Hungary, or other countries. The thought is beautiful: giving an animal a better life. But what many new pet owners don't know – and what is unfortunately communicated far too rarely – can turn the start with the new family member into a real test.
We are talking about Giardia.
What is Giardia?
Giardia (Giardia duodenalis) are microscopic single-celled organisms – so-called protozoa – that colonize the small intestine of dogs. They are not classic worms but are often colloquially referred to as such.
Facts about Giardia:
- Giardia occurs worldwide – including in Germany
- In animal shelters and rescue centers, where many animals come and go, Giardia is almost unavoidable
- Based on experiences from veterinarians and laboratories: Almost every 2nd dog carries Giardia – without visible symptoms
- Almost every 3rd to 4th dog shows noticeable symptoms due to Giardia infestation
- Transmission occurs through contaminated water, feces, or direct contact with infected animals
Is Giardia contagious – also for humans?
Yes – Giardia is zoonotic, meaning it can fundamentally be transmitted to humans. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems should be particularly cautious. Other pets, such as cats, can also be affected. Therefore, hygiene after contact with the dog is especially important.
What many don't know: Giardia is difficult to eliminate permanently
From the experiences of many pet owners and in collaboration with veterinarians, we know: While Giardia can be reduced with medication, it often returns in many dogs – especially under stress or with a weakened immune system. Dogs that have once had Giardia can be permanent carriers.
Triggers for a renewed outbreak are often: stress (e.g., long journey, moving, new environment), a weakened immune system, or incorrect nutrition – especially carbohydrate-rich food.
Typical Symptoms of Giardia Infestation
- Mucous to partially bloody stool
- Recurring diarrhea
- Weight loss despite good appetite
- Bloated stomach
- Lethargy and fatigue
Especially after a long journey from abroad, the dog's immune system is weakened – precisely then, Giardia can become particularly active.
⚠️ Our honest advice – even if it's sometimes uncomfortable
Dogs that are already highly stressed by transport and a new environment should first be allowed to settle in. Immediate deworming directly after the long journey further strains the already weakened organism and can have more negative than positive effects.
Let the dog settle in first. High-quality nutrition, well-cooked carrots as a gentle start, and natural support are often more sensible in the first few weeks than immediate chemical treatments. The dog's body first needs rest and strength – then it can regulate many things itself.
🚫 What promotes Giardia – strictly avoid!
Important to know: Giardia feeds on carbohydrates! If you feed your dog a diet rich in carbohydrates, you are providing the parasites with optimal conditions.
| Food | Why problematic |
|---|---|
| Vegetables (raw) | Sugar & starch favor parasites |
| Grains (wheat, corn) | High carbohydrate content |
| Fruit | Fructose |
| Cellulose/Fiber | Plant fibers promote Giardia |
| Sugar & sweets | Direct food for parasites |
| Cheap ready-made food | Usually full of hidden carbohydrates |
✅ Exceptions – what can still help
Well-cooked carrots are a positive exception: When cooked, they are easily digestible and, according to the experiences of many pet owners, even helpful for worm infestation in general. However, it's better to avoid them raw.
Rice in small quantities is acceptable as a stomach soother – but it should not become the main food source.
The right diet for Giardia – less is more
- ✅ High-quality meat & meat meal as main food
- ✅ Well-cooked carrots – a gentle natural start
- ✅ A little rice as a side dish to soothe the stomach
- ✅ Plenty of fresh water
- ❌ No raw vegetables, no grains, no sweets
🍽️ Important: Small portions – several times a day!
During the Giardia phase, it is especially important not to overload the gastrointestinal tract. Give your dog the daily ration divided into 3 to 4 small portions throughout the day – instead of one or two large meals.
This gives the gastrointestinal tract enough time to empty and recover. Smaller portions are easier to digest, put less strain on the irritated intestines, and help the body to calm down more quickly.
✅ Rule of thumb: Total daily amount ÷ 3 to 4 portions – evenly distributed throughout the day.
🌿 Natural Support – our practical experience
Based on feedback from many of our customers – and in consultation with veterinarians – we have found that the combination of two of our products has led to a noticeable improvement in symptoms in many dogs:
1. VET Spezial Turkey & Rice
Our VET Spezial is not just for sick dogs – it is a high-quality food that every dog can have and from which many dogs benefit:
- 38% turkey meat meal – high meat content, low carbohydrates
- Turmeric – traditionally known for its anti-inflammatory properties
- Psyllium husks – can help regulate bowel movements
- Egyptian black pepper – traditionally used to support the digestive system
- Gluten-free & grain-free – deprives Giardia of its carbohydrate food source
2. Vital Plus – the natural elixir of life
Vital Plus is used by many of our customers as complementary natural support:
- 🛡️ Can support the immune system after stress and long journeys
- 🔄 Is used for natural support of liver & intestines
- ⚡ Many customers report increased vitality in their dogs
- 🌿 100% natural – can be used safely long-term
🛑 Stop Giardia – through proper nutrition!
The proven combination of VET Spezial & Vital Plus – successfully used by many customers.
➡️ https://kallisbest.de/products/vital-duo
Buy Vital DUO – the combination in all sizes:
📋 Recommended Procedure According to Customer Experiences
| Phase | Measure |
|---|---|
| Immediately upon arrival | Rest, allow to settle in, high-quality bland diet |
| First few days | Well-cooked carrots + high-quality meat food (3-4 small portions/day) |
| From day 3-5 | Switch to VET Spezial + Vital Plus |
| First 14 days | Vital Plus daily, VET Spezial as main food (3-4 portions/day) |
| Every 3 months | Repeat course of 14 days recommended |
| Permanently | Vital Plus twice a week as a preventative measure |
| In case of stress | Immediately apply daily again |
Stool as the Best Indicator
Many pet owners report: When the stool returns to normal – no mucus, no discoloration, firm consistency – it is a good sign that the dog is on the road to recovery. Observe your dog carefully. For persistent severe symptoms or significant weight loss, we recommend consulting a veterinarian.
The Most Important Thing: Acceptance & Long-Term Prevention
Giardia can recur – due to stress, changes in environment, or a weakened immune system. This cannot always be completely avoided. But you can make the best of it:
- 🥩 Consistently high-quality food – no cheap carbohydrate-rich processed food
- 🌿 Vital Plus twice a week – lifelong as a preventative measure
- 👀 Observe stool – at the first signs, immediately start the 14-day support course
- 😌 Minimize stress – fixed routines, quiet environment, no unnecessary burdens
Don't Forget Hygiene
- Remove feces immediately & wash hands
- Clean bowl & toys regularly with hot water
- Multiple dogs in the household? Support all of them simultaneously!
💚 Our Personal Appeal – Before You Adopt a Dog From Abroad
Before you want to help a poor soul from abroad – first look at an animal shelter in your area! Many dogs there are waiting for a loving family and are often overlooked because people are looking abroad.
If you don't find a suitable dog there – then you can always dedicate all your time and love to a poor soul from abroad. Both ways are wonderful. But start first on your own doorstep. 🐾
– Karlheinz Eitle, Kallisbest
Conclusion
Rescuing a dog from abroad is a wonderful decision – but one that requires preparation. Those who know what they might be dealing with can act purposefully and give their new four-legged friend the best possible start to a new life.
A healthy dog with a strong immune system and high-quality nutrition can live well with Giardia – without them becoming a permanent problem. That's exactly what we at Kallisbest want to help with.
Do you have questions about your dog's nutrition or our products? Write to us – we are happy to help!
Note: This article is based on customer experiences and general information. It does not replace a veterinary diagnosis or treatment. For serious health problems, please consult your veterinarian.
