coccidiosis
coccidiosis is a very common protozoan (one-celled organisms) that many animals carry including birds, pigs, horses, calves, cats, you, me your doctor…. (The coccidia species of dogs and cats do not infect humans.)
it use to be thought that it was only in dirty unclean environments, it is now understood that it is stress related and may not show any signs until the puppy is under stress ( like weaning or moving to a new home)
"This is a common parasite and is not necessarily a sign of poor husbandry."
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/
The primary sign is diarrhea. As a puppy ages, he tends to develop a natural immunity to the effects. But until he does a vet will have to give a Prescription so that the puppy does not become dehydrated.
The only approved med for coccidian in dogs at this time is Sulfadimethoxine (Albon®) Which Inhibits their reproduction but doesn’t kill it. Your will have to get this from your vet.
Though there is meds being used “off label” (not yet approved for dogs) that will kill it.
Some vets will proscribe an off-label treatment, and some will not. Some vets advocate using Albon as prevention, and some feel it is just setting the puppy up for strains that are Albon resistant.
Other things that mimic coccidia
Change of water
Change of food
Eating something it shouldn’t (garbage, toxins, medications.)
Eating something that acts like a laxative ( high cal-sugar supplement)
Campylobacter
Worms
Parvo
Giardia
Just about anything that can cause loose stools.
At this time, I have a litter vet checked before I say a litter is ready to go. This includes a fecal flout (check) Though, like it has been written, very often there is no signs until the puppy is stressed from moving to a new home.