Prevalence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestation and Babesia canis infection in dogs with respect to breed type and degree of freedom in Makurdi, Benue State-Nigeria

Abstract

An investigation on the prevalence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestation and Babesia canis infection among domestic dogs in Makurdi metropolis was carried out. The blood samples were collected from the tip of the ear of randomly selected 108 dogs; thin blood smears were stained with Giemsa stain and then examined under the microscope. Stereoscopic examination was used for the identification of ticks collected. 11 (10.2%) dogs were found positive for babesiosis, male dogs recorded an infection rate of 13.8% while female had 6.0%. No significant difference was observed between male and female dogs(X =2.59, P > 0.05). A total of 89(82.4%) dogs were found to be infested with ticks mainly Rhipicephalus sanguineus. With regards to the degree of restriction, infection among free-roaming, semi-confined and confined dogs was significantly different (X =1.32, p<.05) with the freeroaming dogs recording the highest prevalence 18.7%. Prevalence of Babesia canis among the breed was not significant (X = 12.52, p<.05), with 6 (8.6%) local, 3 (18.7%) hybrid and 2 (9.1%) foreign dogs being positive. Generally, the most preferred predilection site for ticks (irrespective of breed or degree of restriction) was the paws/interdigital spaces (96.6%) and the back (92.1%). The relatively high prevalence of both tick infestation and babesiosis in Makurdi is of public health significance because of the possibility of zoonotic transmission. Since dogs are man’s closest companions in the animal world, this relationship must be encouraged for obvious reasons. Thus curative and preventive measures such as regular deticking and bathing, clearing of bushes around houses, fumigating of kernels and surroundings, and administration of prophylactic treatments (Carbesia, Samorenil) are essential and should be enforced for the good health and benefits of dog services to man and prevention of zoonosis.