Giardia

[MyPemCharlie]

Originally Posted by KJohnson

We've had such a hard time finding a good vet that we are comfortable with.... this is Westin's third vet, AND we are going up north about an hour to get his neutering done because it is ridiculously expensive here (unnecessarily so). *sigh* I feel like I can't find a good pediatrician for my child, you know?

I do know what you mean! I believe that the medical community (pet and human) have good intentions, but seem to have too many customers and too little support staff. IMO, they tend to offer very generalized service or treatment that works for 90% of the population.

Instead of taking whatever a veterinarian (or human doctor) says at face value, I try to arm myself with whatever information I can research. Knowing the right questions to ask can save you time and money. My vet did say that the over-the-counter Safe-Guard (for about $5) was the same product as their prescription Panacure (for about $20)...of course that cost them revenue, but I appreciate my vet's honesty.

So, if your vet comes back and offers a prescription Panacure, ask about Safe-Guard. If they reccomend prescription Flagyl (Metronidazole) ask about over-the-counter 250mg Fish Zole, also about potential side effects of Metronidazole on the liver and other organs.

As you can probably tell, I'm a little skeptical about the medical community, but try to see my vet as a partner/consultant to discuss options than as the end-all, know-all for my dog's health.

[KJohnson]

I still haven't heard from the vet (and I'm off to work in about 10 minutes!)
so I'm going to call on my way across town and see if the vet "has time" yet.
I'll ask about the other options that you said, thank you very much!

[Michael Romanos]

Most vets in New Zealand do not charge for a follow-up consultation. Most vets here will give free advice over the telephone. All vet assistants/receptionists (in effect they are nurses) here have some compulsory knowledge to be able to offer some cursory advice.

[KJohnson]

Westin tested negative for worms and giardia, but the vet told us to keep an eye on him for a little while and see if anything else comes up. anyone know what I should be looking for besides obvious signs of giardia? now I have to look forward to his neuter on Wednesday, YAY! talk about mom's worst nightmare.... lol.

[MyPemCharlie]

What symptoms was he having, and did he get better on his own or is he still having symptoms?