Giardia is an kill giardia with Lysol parasite, or protozoan, that causes disease in dogs and humans. Giardiasis is characterized by diarrhea. The Giardia organism exists in two forms: a fragile feeding form (trophozoite) that lives in the gut, and a hardy cystic form shed in feces that can survive months outside the body in water and damp environments. Some dogs that carry the trophozoite form do not show any signs of illness. Others become ill when they ingest the cystic form.

The trophozoite and cystic forms both contain a protein that interferes with normal intestinal absorption of nutrients. These particles also interfere with the immune system of the animal and can cause a host of other symptoms including colitis, giardiasis, and hepatitis.

Pine-Sol and Vinegar Mixture Safety: What Homeowners Should Know

A veterinarian can diagnose giardia with a fresh fecal sample that is sent for laboratory analysis. Occasionally, these samples require a special zinc sulfate flotation test to detect the organism. Occasionally, the organisms are not detected because they are shed intermittently and may only be seen on a direct fecal smear.

You can kill giardia with Lysol, but it is important to follow the instructions on the label for proper application. Leaving it on too long or not spraying enough surface area can be counterproductive and make your pet sick again. Also, the product must dry completely before you can reintroduce your pets to the treated surfaces. Chlorine bleach and quaternary ammonium compounds like Parvosol are effective alternatives to Lysol for environmental disinfection.