Abstract

Introduction: Gastrointestinal parasites of dogs are of global concern, especially those that are of zoonotic importance in developed and developing countries, being companion animals. This research determined the prevalence and clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs, in Abeokuta and its environs.

Method: Faecal samples collected from sick and apparently healthy dogs presented at the veterinary Teaching hospital (VTH), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), and private kennels were analyzed using Centrifugal floatation and the morphology of the eggs and oocyst viewed under the microscope. Data generated were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test was used to determine the association between variables.

Results: Out of the 158 dogs screened, 80 (50.6%) were positive for various intestinal parasites. Helminthic infection was the highest with Ancylostoma caninum infection being the most prevalent (39%). Infection due to helminth was highest in dogs between 1 and 3 years. Isospora infection was prevalent in ages below 1 year followed by 1 – 3 years, but absent in dogs above 3 years. Hunting dogs (%) were mostly infected compared with confined or semi-confined dogs but without protozoan infection. Dull or rough hair coat was the most frequently observed clinical sign in dogs with intestinal parasites. In conclusion, gastrointestinal parasitic infection mostly, Ancylostoma caninum, is highly prevalent among dogs in Abeokuta and environs. Isosporaa infection was absent in hunting dogs and ages above 3 years.

Significance: Dog owners need to be educated on the importance of routine veterinary care of their dogs to reduce the load of intestinal parasites.

Keywords: Clinical signs, Dogs, Parasites, Prevalence

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