03/05/2026
Giardia Awareness & Policy at Ruffner’s
Please Read – This Affects All Daycare & Boarding Dogs
Giardia is a common intestinal parasite that spreads easily between dogs. Dogs can carry and spread Giardia even when they show no symptoms. Recently, we have seen an increase in cases and want to be transparent about what we can control and what we cannot.
Why This Is So Difficult to Control
• Some veterinarians do not routinely test for Giardia.
• Some veterinarians will not treat dogs that have no symptoms.
• Asymptomatic dogs can still shed and spread Giardia to other dogs.
• This means infected dogs may still be attending group environments.
What Ruffner’s Will Continue To Do
• We maintain strict sanitation and disinfecting protocols.
• Play yards and surfaces are disinfected regularly.
• Water areas and shared spaces are sanitized.
• Pools and outdoor areas are cleaned frequently during use.
If we receive a confirmed positive Giardia test from a veterinarian, that dog will not be allowed to attend daycare or boarding until treatment has been completed and a negative f***l result is received.
What We Need From Our Clients
• Speak with your veterinarian about Giardia testing.
• Notify us immediately if your dog tests positive.
• Advocate for your dog. We will require treatment be done for any positive case, even asymptomatic ones. We have found that the most successful treatment has been the combination of Panacur and Metronidazole.
We are doing everything within our control to protect the dogs in our care through sanitation, monitoring, and strict attendance policies. However, veterinary testing and treatment decisions are outside of our control. Preventing the spread of Giardia requires cooperation between veterinarians, pet owners, and facilities like ours.
Thank you for helping keep Ruffner’s dogs as healthy as possible.
