Blood Of Dogs Research Articles

Prevalence, Molecular Identification and Phylogenic Analysis of Hepatozoon canis from Naturally Infected Dogs in Andhra Pradesh, South India

Background: The present study is carried out for the detection of Hepatozoon canis organism from naturally infected dogs in Andhra Pradesh, South India. Methods: A total of 97 dogs blood samples were analyzed by microscopy and conventional PCR and the amplicons of H. canis were sequenced and compared with the sequences deposited at GenBank database. Result: Blood smear examination could detect infection with Hepatozoon canis pathogens in two dogs with 2.06 prevalence, while conventional PCR assay revealed that 9 dogs were positive for H. canis with 9.28 prevalence rate. All the positive samples were further subjected to conventional PCR and amplified 18S rRNA gene of H. canis (737 bp), without any non-specific amplification. DNA sequences of the conventional PCR amplicons were subjected to Boot strap analysis and confirmed as H. canis. Of 97 dogs examined, 8.71% of dogs were infested by ticks and were identified as Rhipicephalus sanguineus. The conventional PCR assay could detect more natural infections of Hepatozoon spp. in dogs emphasizing the need of the assay in epidemiological studies.

Peliosis hepatis and hepatic fibrosis in a dog infected with multiple Bartonella species.

A 13-y-old, spayed female dog had regenerative anemia, lymphopenia, hypoalbuminemia, and elevated hepatic biochemical parameters. Liver biopsy revealed hepatic peliosis (hepatic sinusoidal angiectasis), frequently associated with perisinusoidal fibrosis. The dog was seroreactive to Bartonella antigens by indirect fluorescent antibody assays, and quantitative PCR from blood identified Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii genotype II. The dog was euthanized 9 mo later because of acute decompensation. Autopsy revealed icteric adipose tissues, end-stage liver, and abdominal effusion. Microscopically, there was marked mixed-cell chronic hepatitis with hepatocellular loss, nodular hepatocellular regeneration, and capillary proliferation. Retrospective molecular testing documented B. koehlerae and B. rochalimae DNA in the dog's blood at 2 or more times during liver disease progression. B. koehlerae DNA was also amplified and sequenced from the autopsy sample of liver. Our case emphasizes that Bartonella infection may be associated with hepatic peliosis and end-stage liver in dogs and expands the spectrum of Bartonella species that potentially play a role in canine hepatic diseases.

Detection of selected vector-borne pathogens in domestic animals, ectoparasites, and their owners in a rural community in Southwest Guatemala.

Vector-borne pathogens, which are transmitted by blood-feeding arthropods to animals and people, are common in tropical regions where, combined with economic factors, can cause significant public health burden. A community-level study was undertaken in southwestern Guatemala to assess the presence of vector-borne pathogens in blood samples from humans (n=98), their animals (n=90), and ectoparasites (n=83) over a period of 2weeks. Human capillary blood was collected from participant's index finger, and animal venous blood (chickens, pigs, dogs, and cats) was collected from the jugular or cephalic veins at the enrollment period of a concurrent study. Ectoparasites (fleas, ticks, and lice) were collected from dogs at the time of the blood collection. Total DNA was extracted from the human blood, animal blood, and ectoparasites and assayed using published PCR assays for Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., and Ehrlichia spp. Ectoparasites were also tested for the presence of Rickettsia spp. DNA by PCR. Anaplasma spp. DNA was amplified from 1 of 39 (2.6%) chickens and 1 of 6 (16.6%) turkeys. All human and dog blood samples were negative for Bartonella spp. in the same community. Ehrlichia spp. DNA was amplified from 12 (60%) of 20 dogs and sequencing documented Ehrlichia spp. in 2 dogs and the ticks and fleas collected from these dogs. All the Ehrlichia spp.-positive sequences showed 100% homology to E. canis sequences and other uncultured Ehrlichia spp. strains isolated from animals. Rickettsia spp. DNA was not amplified from any of the ectoparasites assessed. Our findings suggest that Ehrlichia spp. are common in dogs and Anaplasma spp. are circulating in poultry in a rural community in southwest Guatemala. We expect these results to be used in awareness campaigns and public health interventions to reduce vector borne pathogens in the region.

Detection of Mycoplasma haemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum in shelter and pet dogs in Malaysia.

Canine haemotrophic mycoplasmosis is caused by mycoplasma haemopathogens, which includes Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc) and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (CMhp). The Mhc and CMhp pose a health risk to dogs, particularly in immunocompromised and splenectomised dogs, as they lead to haemolytic anaemia. There is scarce information on the detection of Mycoplasma in dogs in Malaysia. Therefore, this study aims to detect the presence of Mycoplasma in the blood of shelter and pet dogs and identify associated risk factors in Malaysian dog populations. Blood samples from shelter dogs in Selangor (n = 71) and pet dogs in Johor Bahru (n = 169) were collected. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Mycoplasma 16S rRNA. Overall, 21.7% of the tested samples were positive, with a higher prevalence among the shelter dogs (45.1%) than pet dogs (11.8%). The Mhc was the predominant species detected, with only one case of CMhp. Risk factors associated with Mycoplasma infection in shelter dogs included urban areas, and the presence of rodents, and wild animals, but no significant associations with tick infestations were detected. These findings necessitate the importance of Mycoplasma transmission dynamics among Malaysian dog populations to assist in the implementation of control measures.

Development and Validation of a Robust and Straightforward LC-MS Method for Measuring Taurine in Whole Blood and Plasma of Dogs and Reference Intervals Calculation

Several studies have highlighted the essential role of taurine in maintaining the health of small animals, particularly dogs. Taurine deficiency has been linked to various health issues, especially in certain dog breeds. Therefore, accurately assessing taurine levels in canine blood is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring these conditions. In this study, we present the development of a novel liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for rapidly quantifying taurine concentrations in dog whole blood and plasma. The method was validated according to current guidelines, showing excellent accuracy, precision, and sensitivity across a wide concentration range. Specifically, the limit of quantification was set at 80 nmol/mL for whole blood and 8 nmol/mL for plasma, ensuring the method’s reliability for both matrices. The application of this validated technique to blood samples of healthy dogs allowed for the establishment of reference intervals for taurine concentrations (148 to 495 nmol/mL for whole blood; 42 to 183 nmol/mL for plasma). Due to its robustness and simplicity, this method represents a valuable tool, supporting its routine use in health assessments and enabling more effective monitoring of taurine status in dogs.

A Retrospective Epidemiological Analysis of Microscopically Detected Babesiosis in Dogs of Southern Poland (2018–2022)

Babesia canis is the parasite responsible for a life-threatening disease for dogs in Central Europe, of which the main vector is the ornate dog tick—Dermacentor reticulatus. The objective of the presented study was to assess the prevalence of Babesia infection in dogs with clinical suspicion of babesiosis, which tested positive for B. canis from locations where there is no or very limited information about dog exposure to this pathogen. In order to confirm the presence of this protozoan, blood samples were collected from dogs treated in veterinary clinics with suspicion of canine babesiosis. The samples were sent for microscopic analysis to Vetlab, a commercial veterinary diagnostic laboratory, to confirm the diagnosis. Overall, 3032 dog blood samples from Southern Poland were examined between 1 August 2018 and 31 December 2022 at the Vetlab laboratory. A total of 282 (9.3%) samples were found to be Babesia-positive using Wright–Giemsa stain peripheral blood smears, with an increase in two periods per year—April and October. Among the five voivodships, from which the laboratory analyzed blood samples, the highest number of Babesia-positive samples came from Częstochowa (Silesia) and its surroundings. Moreover, Babesia protozoans occurred more frequently in blood smears of pure-breed rather than mixed-breed dogs. The obtained results showed that infections with large Babesia in dogs from Southern Poland (with a special indication for the Śląskie Voivodship) should be taken into consideration during the differential diagnosis of tick-borne diseases at veterinary clinics. The presented study increases the vigilance and awareness of veterinarians and dog owners in this region, where babesiosis was very rarely diagnosed until date.

Molecular Evidence of Leptospira spp. Infection Among Household Dogs From 15 Municipalities of the Department of Caldas, Colombia.

Leptospira spp. is a bacterial genus which includes pathogenic species that causes leptospirosis. Several animal species can harbour, shed and disseminate the bacteria through their urine. Although the circulation of Leptospira among homeless dogs may be common, the presence of Leptospira among household dogs is more important since they can act as important sources of infection for their owners due to the closer contact with humans. The aim of the present study was to detect the presence of Leptospira spp. among household dogs from 15 municipalities of the Caldas department. Between November 2015 and January 2017, an active household dog sampling was performed in 15 municipalities of Caldas department. Dog blood samples were tested through conventional PCR targeting a fragment of the Leptospira rrs and LipL32 genes. All obtained amplicons were purified and bi-directionally sequenced. Obtained sequences were assembled and edited for subsequent phylogenetic analysis. A total of 196 dogs were sampled from 15 municipalities of Caldas department, of which 180 were screened for Leptospira spp. Ten (5.6%) dog blood samples from seven municipalities were successfully amplified for the Leptospira rrs gene. Two Leptospira rrs good-quality sequences were obtained which had a closer relationship with Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira santarosai. We confirm the presence of Leptospira spp. closely related with L. interrogans and L. santarosai among household dogs from seven municipalities of Caldas department. These results highlight the need to improve the care of household dogs in Caldas department since they could eventually become important sources of infection of leptospirosis.

A novel approach to quantitative profiling of bile acids in dog blood serum by means triple quadruple LC-MS/MS: A step-by-step method optimization

A novel approach to quantitative profiling of bile acids in dog blood serum by means triple quadruple LC-MS/MS: A step-by-step method optimization

Occurrence of Leishmania spp. in phlebotomine sand flies and dogs in Guelma region, North-eastern Algeria

Leishmania spp. are sand fly-borne parasitic protozoa of worldwide distribution that may severely affect the health and welfare of dogs as well as of other mammalian species, including humans. Algeria is among the most affected countries, counting several cases of Leishmania infantum infection in humans and dogs. Here, we assessed the occurrence of Leishmania species in both phlebotomine sand fly and dogs in the Guelma region, Northeast of Algeria. Sand flies were collected from July to September 2022, followed by a survey of canine leishmaniasis (CanL) from September 2023 to February 2024. Additionally, to understand the risk of human infection a retrospective data on cases of leishmaniasis recorded in the region from 2012 to 2023 were reported. Sand fly specimens and canine blood samples were tested by quantitative PCR (qPCR) for Leishmania spp., while dog serum samples were processed for anti-L. infantum antibodies detection by immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Of the 1478 sand flies (n = 318 females; n = 1160 males), seven species were identified (i.e., Phlebotomus papatasi, Ph. perfiliewi, Ph. sergenti, Ph. perniciosus, Ph. longicuspis, Ph. ariasi, and Sergentomyia minuta). Leishmania spp. was detected in Ph. perniciosus, Ph. perfiliewi, Ph. papatasi, and Ph. sergenti (i.e., 3.7 %; n = 10). The overall seroprevalence rate was 58.2 %, with 1.6 % of dog blood samples positive for L. infantum at molecular screening. Multivariate analysis of the different risk factors revealed that CanL seropositivity was strongly related to dog age (> 1 year) (OR = 8.35, 95 % CI: 3.43–23.93), the autumn season (OR = 2.95, 95 % CI: 1.33–8.62), and lack of insecticide application (OR = 6.69, 95 % CI: 2.61–22.02). A total of 71 human cases of cutaneous (CL) and visceral (VL) leishmaniasis were recorded. Data presented reveal the occurrence of CanL in Guelma region, advocating for control program measures to be implemented in this part of Algeria.

Unraveling the DNA methylation landscape in dog blood across breeds

BackgroundDNA methylation is a covalent bond modification that is observed mainly at cytosine bases in the context of CG pairs. DNA methylation patterns reflect the status of individual tissues, such as cell composition, age, and the local environment, in mammals. Genetic factors also impact DNA methylation, and the genetic diversity among various dog breeds provides a valuable platform for exploring this topic. Compared to those in the human genome, studies on the profiling of methylation in the dog genome have been less comprehensive.ResultsOur study provides extensive profiling of DNA methylation in the whole blood of three dog breeds using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing. The difference in DNA methylation between breeds was moderate after removing CpGs overlapping with potential genetic variation. However, variance in methylation between individuals was common and often occurred in promoters and CpG islands (CGIs). Moreover, we adopted contextual awareness methodology to characterize DNA primary sequences using natural language processing (NLP). This method could be used to effectively separate unmethylated CGIs from highly methylated CGIs in the sequences that are identified by the conventional criteria.ConclusionsThis study presents a comprehensive DNA methylation landscape in the dog blood. Our observations reveal the similar methylation patterns across dog breeds, while CGI regions showed high variations in DNA methylation level between individuals. Our study also highlights the potential of NLP approach for analyzing low-complexity DNA sequences, such as CGIs.

Expression of key cytokines in dog macrophages infected by Leishmania tarentolae opening new avenues for the protection against Leishmania infantum

The detection of Leishmania tarentolae in sympatric areas where Leishmania infantum is endemic raised questions regarding the protective effect exerted in dogs by L. tarentolae when in coinfection. This study aimed monitoring the in vitro gene expression of pro- (IFN- γ; TNF-α; IL-12) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4; IL-6; IL-10) cytokines in primary canine macrophages infected by L. tarentolae and L. infantum in single and in co-infections. Macrophages differentiated from dog blood mononuclear cells were infected with the L. tarentolae field-isolated (RI-325) and laboratory (LEM-124) strains, with L. infantum laboratory strain (IPT1), or both. Infection and the number of amastigotes per infected cell were evaluated microscopically by counting a total of 200 cells between 4 and 96 h. Cytokine gene expression was analyzed by real-time PCR from infected macrophages mRNA. Single infections presented higher expression of the cytokines IL-4 and IL-6, and lower of IL-12. Co-infections induced a lower gene expression of IL-4 and IL-6, and a higher gene expression of IL-12, correlating with the low amastigote burden despite the slight increase of infected cells. Data highlight the potential protective effect of L. tarentolae against L. infantum in co-infection by the reduced anti-inflammatory and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression, opening new perspectives for a canine vaccine development exploiting the non-pathogenic L. tarentolae.

Molecular prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Coxiella burnetii in dogs and associated ticks in Egypt: Emerging One Health challenging zoonoses.

Tick-borne pathogens pose a significant problem in canines, other animals, and humans worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Coxiella burnetii in dogs and associated ticks in Egypt. Blood samples from 110 tick-infested dogs and 550 whole ticks (divided into 110 pools) were collected and tested for the targeted pathogens using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 110 dog blood samples, B. burgdorferi DNA was detected in three samples, E. canis in six samples, and C. burnetii in one kenneled dog. Among the 110 tick pools, B. burgdorferi was detected in four pools, E. canis in 12 pools, and C. burnetii in three pools from kenneled dogs. The overall prevalence of the three agents in dog and tick samples were 3.18%, 8.18%, and 1.81%, respectively. Simultaneous positive PCR reactions in both dogs and their associated tick pools were observed in four cases. B. burgdorferi and E. canis were simultaneously detected in two dogs and two tick pools, whereas C. burnetii was detected in one dog but not in any tick pools. The three agents were simultaneously detected in one dog, but none were found in the corresponding tick pools. A mixed infection of C. burnetii and B. burgdorferi was observed in one dog and one tick pool. Molecular diagnosis is the most reliable method for detecting B. burgdorferi, E. canis, and C. burnetii in dogs and associated ticks. E. canis showed the highest prevalence in both dog and tick samples followed by B. burgdorferi while C. burnetti showed the lowest prevalence. The potential transmission of these diseases from companion dogs to humans through ticks presents a significant challenge for the One Health concept.

Dogs may carry Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major in their blood circulation: a molecular and hematological study

BackgroundDogs may be infected with species of Leishmania parasites that are disseminated through blood circulation and invade the internal organs. In this study, we aim to detect the parasite in the blood of dogs using the PCR technique. The present work was performed from February 2022 to May 2023 in Fars Province, southern Iran, where the disease is endemic.ResultsIn total, 7(5.1%) out of 135 blood samples, six were identified as Leishmania tropica and one as Leishmania major. We found no trace of Leishmania infantum, which is always known for visceral infection. In addition, no sign of cutaneous lesions or a significant disease was seen in the animals infected with both species. Of 48 dogs with anemia, two were Leishmania positive. The mean value of hematological parameters in the infected dogs was within the normal range except for a significant reduction in the platelet measures (p < 0.05).ConclusionsOur data revealed that both Leishmania species, tropica and major, may manifest as viscerotropic leishmaniasis. More investigations are needed to understand the conditions under which these species choose the type of infection. Moreover, our data emphasize the role of asymptomatic dogs in carrying these parasites, a crucial factor in spreading the disease.

Intensity of lipid peroxidation processes in the blood of dogs infected with the causative agent of toxocariasis

Gastrointestinal helminthiasis, particularly toxocarosis, is the most common invasive disease of dogs in our country and abroad. It is important to note that toxocarosis is a zoonosis that poses a threat not only to animals but also to humans. It is known that one of the manifestations of the toxic effect of toxocar byproducts is the activation of the processes of peroxide oxidation of cell membrane lipids. Lipid peroxidation is one of the most essential oxidation processes in the body of dogs. Currently, this process is considered one of the leading causes of cell damage and death due to the negative effect of reactive oxygen species. Any sufficiently powerful impact on the animal body, including the development of toxocarosis, can initiate lipid peroxidation processes. That is why the work aimed to determine the effect of toxocarosis infestation on the level of intermediate and final products of lipid peroxide oxidation in the body of dogs. 12 dogs aged two to four months were used for experimental research, and two groups of six animals each were formed: control and experimental. Puppies of the control group were clinically healthy. Puppies of the research group were experimentally infected with the causative agent of toxocarosis at a dose of 5,000 invasive T. canis eggs per kg of body weight. The development of toxocarosis in dogs leads to a significant and probable (P &lt; 0.001) accumulation in the blood of dogs in all periods of the study of the content of intermediate (diene conjugates) and final (TBK-active products) products of lipid peroxidation. In dogs with experimental toxocarosis, an increase in these LPO products was established, especially on the 28th and 35th days of the experiment, where, accordingly, the level of diene conjugates ranged from 0.750 ± 0.004 to 0.675 ± 0.003 odA/ml (Р &lt; 0.001), and the level of TBC-active products - in the range of 38.38 ± 0.174 – 38.18 ± 0.137 μmol/l (Р &lt; 0.001). These changes may be because, in the pathogenesis of toxocariasis in dogs, an important role is played by the increased formation of reactive oxygen species, which subsequently cause a disturbance in the balance between the content of oxidants and antioxidants in the body of dogs. It is also worth paying attention to more significant changes in the level of intermediate POL products in dogs' blood during experimental toxocarosis compared to the final products.

Dog Blood Type DEA 1 in Two Municipalities of Luanda Province of Angola (Sub-Saharan Africa).

In dogs, the risk of an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction at the first transfusion is negligible; however, mismatched transfusions may produce alloimmunization. To avoid fatal acute hemolytic reactions in subsequent blood transfusions, it is important to recognize blood groups and to blood type both the donor and the recipient. Prevalence of dog blood groups varies geographically and between breeds. Our aim was to determine DEA 1 prevalence in a canine population in Luanda (Angola) and to assess alloimmunization risk after a mismatched blood transfusion. Blood samples were typed using an immunochromatographic strip technique. Of the 112 dogs tested (59 males; 53 females), 52.68% were DEA 1 positive and 47.32% DEA 1 negative. Females tended to be DEA 1 positive, and males DEA 1 negative (p = 0.0085). In a first-time mismatched blood transfusion, the calculated probability of a dog becoming sensitized was 24.9% and the probability of an acute hemolytic reaction following a second incompatible blood transfusion was 6.21%. DEA 1 prevalence obtained was similar to that reported worldwide, but differs from other African countries. The risk of alloimmunization and acute hemolytic transfusion reactions in mismatched blood transfusions is higher than that in other African regions. Blood typing is recommended prior to transfusion.

First Sero-Molecular Diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. Infections in the Police Dogs and Their Trainers in Iran.

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) and Toxocara spp. are two types of parasites that can infect humans and various animals, including dogs. Police dogs and their trainers have a vital role in law enforcement, and their health and well-being are crucial for them to effectively carry out their duties. No study has yet been conducted on the prevalence of T. gondii and Toxocara spp. infections among police dogs and their trainers in Iran. The objective of this study was to determine the sero-molecular prevalence of T. gondii and Toxocara spp. infections in police dogs and their trainers in Tehran, the capital of Iran. In Tehran province, the anti-narcotics police have nearly 200 well-trained police dogs. Each dog is assigned a dedicated trainer and upon completing missions, is housed separately in a designated area. In the present study, a total of 150 samples were gathered. These included 50 blood samples from randomly selected police dogs, 50 fecal samples from the same dogs, and 50 blood samples from their trainers. The Modified Agglutination Test (MAT) was performed to detect T. gondii antibodies in dog blood samples and the ELISA system was utilized to identify anti-Toxoplasma and anti-Toxocara antibodies in the sera of the dog trainers. A specific segment of the SAG2 and ITS genes were amplified via nested-PCR in order to molecularly detect T. gondii in human blood samples and Toxocara spp. in dog fecal samples. Regarding serological findings, the prevalence of T. gondii in dog and human blood samples was 4% (2/50) and 10% (5/50), respectively. According to reports, the seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. in human blood samples was 6% (3/50). No statistically significant association was found between the prevalence of the examined parasites and variables (age, sex, and breed) in dogs, as well as the age variable in military personnel. Molecular findings showed that out of the 50 dog fecal samples and 50 human blood samples, there was no presence of Toxocara spp. and T. gondii, respectively. Understanding the prevalence of parasitic infections helps public health officials assess the risk to human and animal populations. This information can guide the development of prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of these infections. Overall, the prevalence of parasitic infections, particularly T. gondii and Toxocara spp., in police dogs and their trainers remains uncertain and necessitates further in-depth research.

Feeding Behavior and Plasmodium Detection in Anopheles stephensi, a Malaria Vector in District Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Anopheles stephensi is a significant malaria vector in Pakistan, and understanding its feeding behavior is necessary to control the spread of malaria. However, limited information is available on the host preferences of A. stephensi in Pakistan. Therefore, we aimed to explore the feeding behavior of A. stephensi, a malaria vector, in the District Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 7462 mosquitoes were collected between March and September 2021, with 1674 (22.4%) identified as A. stephensi (952 female and 722 male). Among the female A. stephensi, 495 (52%) were blood-fed. DNA was extracted from the blood-fed female A. stephensi mosquitoes using the Ammonium Acetate Precipitation Method followed by PCR analysis, blood meal sources were identified. Nested PCR on 191 pooled samples was used to detect Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. Cattle blood meals were predominant (73%), followed by human (20%) and chicken (7%), with no dog blood meals detected. All individual mosquito samples were negative for Plasmodium falciparum, while two pooled samples (out of 191) tested positive for P. vivax. A. stephensi in Khyber District primarily displayed anthropophagic feeding behavior, with a small portion of the population infected with P. vivax. The results underscore the importance of targeted vector control strategies, environmental management, community engagement and continuous monitoring to suppress malaria transmission.

Relation between complete feeding and blood biochemical indicators in housing of service dogs in a kennel

The purpose of the research was to analyze the relation between the complete feeding and biochemical parameters of blood in service dogs when housing in a kennel in the Tyumen region. The objectives of the research included issues on the assessment and adjustment of the existing diet, the study of the physiological state of dogs and the determination of the economic effi ciency of the proposed diet. The article reveals the problems of non-compliance of the existing diet with the feeding standards for service dogs, especially in terms of vitamin and mineral nutrition. In order to increase the missing indicators such as the content of protein, calcium and phosphorus to the recommended norm, we proposed to include meat and bone meal in the diet in the amount of 15 g, based on 1 kg of live weight of the dog. The ratio of trace elements calcium and phosphorus will be 1.1:1, which corresponds to the norm of 0.8–1.5: 1. The study of the biochemical composition of the blood showed a change in the enzymatic indicators of the serum to the downside, which may be a symptom of vitamin defi ciency in the diet, especially B vitamins (B6, B1). It is necessary to take into account that these indicators increase with physical activity and intensive use of animals. It was found on the based analysis that the cost of a diet with added vitamins and meat and bone meal would be increased by 2 rubles compared to the existing one, but the diet would be balanced in nutrients. When using traditional feed, it is necessary to include balancing additives in the diet, which requires additional costs. At the same time, we can talk about the feasibility of transferring animals from a traditional diet to feeding dry complete feed.

The state of the system of antioxidant protection of the body of dogs during toxocariasis invasion

Among the invasive diseases of dogs, the most common in our country and abroad is gastrointestinal helminthiasis, among which the leading place is occupied by toxocarosis. Adult toxocara cause an intestinal form of the disease, and the larvae – a visceral one. In the process of migration and vital activity, toxocar larvae cause severe damage to the body of dogs up to death. The work aimed to determine the effect of toxocariasis on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic links of the system of antioxidant protection of the dog's body. Twelve two- to four-month-old dogs were used for experimental research, and two groups of six animals each were formed: control and experimental. Puppies of the control group were clinically healthy. Puppies of the experimental group were experimentally infected with the causative agent of toxocarosis at a dose of 5,000 invasive T. canis eggs per kg of body weight. It was established that the antioxidant protection system of the dog's body is inhibited during toxocariasis infection, which is indicated by a decrease in the activity of the enzyme link and indicators of the glutathione system. Under the conditions of experimental toxocarosis invasion, a decrease in the activity of the enzyme link of the system of antioxidant protection of the dog's body was established, as indicated by a reduction in the activity of catalase by 51.9 %, superoxide dismutase by 33.4 %. The development of toxocariasis in dogs is also accompanied by depletion of the glutathione-dependent link of the antioxidant defense system. In infected dogs, a decrease in the content of reduced glutathione in their blood was established by 31.1 % (Р &lt; 0.01), glutathione peroxidase activity – by 26.6 % (Р &lt; 0.001), glutathione reductase activity – by 22.2 % (Р &lt; 0.001). The lowest activity of enzymes of the antioxidant system and the content of reduced glutathione in the blood of infected dogs of the experimental group was established on the 28th day of the experiment.

Molecular detection and characterization of Anaplasma marginale and Babesia canis vogeli infecting dogs in Luxor, Egypt

Tick-borne diseases in animals are increasing rapidly worldwide, but there is insufficient information about tick-borne diseases infecting dogs in southern Egypt. Thus, in the current study, we detected the presence of Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) and Babesia canis vogeli (B. canis vogeli) in the blood of dogs. The results revealed that 4/100 (4%) were positive, and a higher infection rate was found in males (75%), than females (25%). The phylogenetic analysis for the major surface protein 4 (msp4) gene in this study was compared with amplicons separate from other reported isolates with alignment by identity 100% with cattle and camels from Egypt, and the phylogenetic analysis for the B. canis vogeli small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene in this study identified identity by 99.89% with dogs from Egypt. This report is considered the first report in southern Egypt about A. marginale in dogs based on the sequence analysis of the msp4 gene, providing new data for the classification and identification of A. marginale in dogs compared to A. marginale isolated from other animals in southern Egypt.