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. 2008 Dec 9:4:49.
doi: 10.1186/1746-6148-4-49.

Parasites of importance for human health in Nigerian dogs: high prevalence and limited knowledge of pet owners

Uade Samuel Ugbomoiko  1 , Liana Ariza, Jorg Heukelbach
Affiliations

Parasites of importance for human health in Nigerian dogs: high prevalence and limited knowledge of pet owners

Uade Samuel Ugbomoiko et al. BMC Vet Res. .

Abstract

Background: Dogs are the most common pet animals worldwide. They may harbour a wide range of parasites with zoonotic potential, thus causing a health risk to humans. In Nigeria, epidemiological knowledge on these parasites is limited.

Methods: In a community-based study, we examined 396 dogs in urban and rural areas of Ilorin (Kwara State, Central Nigeria) for ectoparasites and intestinal helminths. In addition, a questionnaire regarding knowledge and practices was applied to pet owners.

Results: Nine ectoparasite species belonging to four taxa and six intestinal helminth species were identified: fleas (Ctenocephalides canis, Pulex irritans, Tunga penetrans), mites (Demodex canis, Otodectes sp., Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis), ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Ixodes sp.), and lice (Trichodectes canis); and Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma sp., Trichuris vulpis, Dipylidium caninum, Taenidae and Strongyloides sp. Overall prevalence of ectoparasites was 60.4% and of intestinal helminths 68.4%. The occurrence of C. canis, R. sanguineus, T. canis, Ancylostoma sp. and T. vulpis was most common (prevalence 14.4% to 41.7%). Prevalence patterns in helminths were age-dependent, with T. canis showing a decreasing prevalence with age of host, and a reverse trend in other parasite species. Knowledge regarding zoonoses was very limited and the diseases not considered a major health problem. Treatment with antiparasitic drugs was more frequent in urban areas.

Conclusion: Parasites of importance for human health were highly prevalent in Nigerian dogs. Interventions should include health education provided to dog owners and the establishment of a program focusing on zoonotic diseases.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Map of the study area highlighting Nigeria (left), Kwara State and the study area (right).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Prevalence of intestinal helminths species diagnosed in dogs, stratified by age of dogs.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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