Infestation In Dogs Research Articles

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Ectoparasite Infestations in Dogs from the State of Tabasco, Mexico.

This study was carried out to identify the ectoparasites that infest owned dogs in the state of Tabasco, Mexico. In total, 1,302 dogs were sampled in the 5 ecological regions of Tabasco. The dog owners were surveyed to identify the factors associated with infestations. Ectoparasites were identified using taxonomic keys. Eleven species of ectoparasites were observed. General prevalence was 26.65%. Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ctenocephalides felis were the most prevalent and abundant ectoparasites. The most important factors associated with ectoparasite infestations in the studied dogs were living outdoors, being a non-purebred, having short hair, being dark-haired, and having a body condition <3. Ectoparasite studies such as the one presented herein generate important information to create control programs focused on decreasing infestations in companion animals and thus the likelihood of zoonotic transmission of pathogens.

Using of DDU Temperature Models for Predicting the Spread of Dirofilariosis in Dogs in Various Regions of the Republic of Armenia

The purpose of the research is to study the possibility of using the temperature DDU (dirofilaria development units) model for predicting the spread of dirofilariosis in dogs in various regions of the Republic of Armenia.Materials and methods. To obtain temperature models of dirofilariosis in various regions of Armenia, the method of mathematical modeling was applied. The method for determining the number of generations of Dirofilaria spp. infection is based on the effect of the average daily air temperature on the rate of development of Dirofilaria larvae in mosquitoes with a threshold of 14 °C. For a negative value of DDU, the value is set to zero. At temperatures above the threshold, DDU accumulate. For the development of larvae to the infective stage, an amount of 130 DDU is required. The number of possible generations of one generation of larvae L3 was calculated by dividing the annual sum of temperatures above 14 °C by 130 DDU, taking into account that 130 DDU should accumulate within a period not exceeding 30 days. The calculation uses daily data on the average daily air temperature in the period from 2017 to 2019 for Shirak, Aragatston, Armavir and Ararat regions of Armenia.Results and discussion. Temperature modeling of DDU is not of high significance, since it takes into account only the average daily air temperature and does not take into account other factors affecting the incidence rates. The largest number of generations of larvae in mosquitoes could be realized in the Armavir and Ararat regions – on average, 16 generations per year. At the same time, the infection of dogs with dirofilariae in the Armavir region was 42.8%, and in the Ararat region – 29.6%. In Aragatston region, on average, 14–15 generations are developing per year. Dirofilariosis was not detected in the studied dogs. In the Shirak region, on average, 7–8 generations are developing per year. Dirofilariae infection was detected in 3.6% of the dogs studied. Based on the temperature DDU-model of dirofilariosis (on the dates of the end of the first and last incubation of dirofilariosis larvae in mosquitoes for several years), as well as the results of phenological observations, we have developed schemes for effective prevention of dirofilariosis. In order to organize and conduct veterinary preventive measures to prevent infestation of dogs by dirofilariae, it is necessary to organize two lines of defense. The first line of defense: the use of anthelmintics from the group of macrocyclic lactones in Aragatston, Armavir and Ararat regions, which is carried out monthly, and in the Shirak region - from April to January. The second line of defense is repellant treatment of dogs in the Aragatston, Armavir and Ararat regions from March to November, and in the Shirak region from April to October. The practical application of temperature DDU-models of dirofilariosis allows specialists of veterinary and sanitary services to establish the timing of the epizootic season of dirofilariosis, as well as organize and conduct veterinary preventive and therapeutic measures among the population of dogs in endemically disadvantaged areas of the republic.

CPD article: An updated review of the indications and adverse drug events associated with the ectoparasiticides used in small animal practice

The global burden of ectoparasitic infestations is exacerbated by the lack of licensed vaccines, meaning safe and effective ectoparasiticide drugs are vital to their prevention and treatment. However, adverse clinical consequences of treatments for ectoparasites affect thousands of cats and dogs in the UK each year. The unpredictable outcomes of these treatments in some animals can be associated with undesirable consequences and there is a lack of knowledge surrounding their use. This article discusses indications of the major classes of ectoparasiticides used in small animal practice and highlights the types of adverse drug reactions associated with the parasiticides used to treat ectoparasite infestations in dogs and cats. Overall, the incidence of adverse drug events reported in relation to ectoparasiticide use, compared to the total doses administered globally, is small. The potential consequences for animal and human health of not using ectoparasiticides is likely to be more serious than the current rate of adverse drug reactions being reported. The benefits of protection from ectoparasite infestations will therefore outweigh the potential consequences of adverse events associated with such treatment.

First report of straelensiosis in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes).

Straelensia cynotis, a trombidioid larval mite, was identified as a cause of nodular dermatitis in dogs in Southern Europe. It has been suggested that red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a natural host for S.cynotis. However, no case has been reported in this species. To describe three suspected cases of straelensiosis in red foxes. Three juvenile wild red foxes from Portugal. Erythematous papules and nodules were found in the head, neck and limbs of these foxes with no associated pruritus. In skin biopsies, well-preserved larval mites were found within dilated hair follicles. These follicular lesions were multifocal and consisted of a degenerative and necrotic area nearby the parasite's mouthparts with marked pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia and perifollicular mucinosis. These features are considered pathognomonic in S.cynotis infestations in dogs. Treatment and outcome are outlined. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the present case series documents the first known occurrence of nodular dermatitis by Straelensia spp. in red foxes. This new evidence may corroborate participation of the red fox in the life cycle of S.cynotis.

Ectoparasites Ctenocephalides (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae) in the Composition of Mixed Infestations in Domestic Dogs from Poltava, Ukraine

Abstract One of the most common ectoparasites on domestic carnivores are fleas from the genus Ctenocephalides. This group of blood sucking insects are one of the most important in medical and veterinary terms, as they can serve as carriers of dangerous infectious and may cause other invasive diseases. Research studies have established a variety of fleas and other contagions parasitizing domestic dogs in Poltava, Ukraine. Certain peculiarities of these ectoparasitic studies, as a part of mixed infestations of dogs, have recently been determined. The results of the studies have shown that the species composition of the fleas was represented by two main species. The dominant species was Ct. felis, and their prevalence was 36.05 %. Another species (Ct. canis) was diagnosed less often and had a prevalence of 27.94 %. It was found that in 31.18 % of the dogs, the blood-sucking insects were mostly parasitizing in the form of an associations with: nematoda (Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala), Cestoda (Dipylidium caninum), protozoa (Cystoisospora canis), and another ectoparasite (Trichodectes canis). Overall, 33 types of mixed infestations were detected. Moreover, the number of different parasitic species in each dog ranged from one to seven. Fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides (in the composition of two species of parasites) were registered the most often (14.60 %). The infestation of dogs with other forms of mixed infestations was 0.69—8.01 %. The most frequent co-members for Ct. felis were Cestoda [D. caninum (13.47 %)], for Ct. canis—Cestoda [D. caninum (11.23 %)] and Nematoda [T. vulpis (8.29 %)].

The Prevalence of Ticks Infestation of Dogs in Runjin Sambo Area of Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria

Ticks are still considered a major cause of zoonotic diseases most especially to dogs and other related animals. This study was conducted to assess the ticks infestation of dogs in Runjin Sambo area Sokoto. The sample was collected using hand picking and hair brushing method with the assistance of dog owners. A total of sixty dogs were randomly selected in four different sub areas in Runjin Sambo. The locality, sex and age of the dogs were noted. The ticks species were identified in the entomology laboratory using key devices. Four species of ticks namely, Amlyomma variegatum, Rhipicephalus pulchellus, Boophilus decolaratus and Hyalomma excavatum were identified. The 45 (75%) of dogs were found infected with prevalence of 11.67%, 21.67%, 25.00% and 16.67% in the four sub-areas respectively. The prevalence rate of infection was 31.67% in male dogs and 43.33% in female dogs. Similarly 55.00% and 20.00% in adult and puppy dogs respectively. Tick infestation of dogs seems to be due to poor and unhygienic condition of the dogs and can be reduced by proper sanitation, improve hygiene and health education.

METHOD FOR PROTECTING DOGS FROM FLEA INFESTATIONS

The insecticidal efficacy of the active substances of abamectin 0.1% and fipronil 0.05% for flea dermatitis in dogs was evaluated. For research, 50 invasive animals were selected, which were divided into 5 groups in equal numbers. The animals were treated twice with an interval of 5 days by the method of large-drop spraying of the withers, dewlap, shoulder, thigh and abdomen. The insecticidal efficacy of the concentration of emulsions was evaluated daily by microscopy studies of the number of dead imago in animals. As a result of the experiments, it was found that when protecting dogs from flea infestations, the extensivity (EE) of the composition in doses of 0.005 ml/kg was 10% after 72 hours; in doses of 0.01, 0.03 and 0.05 ml/kg – 30%, 50%, 80%, respectively, after 48 hours; in doses of 0.01 ml/kg – 70%, 0.03 and 0.05 ml/kg – 100% after 72 hours, respectively. An analysis of the studies showed that a single application of a composite insecticide containing active ingredients (abamectin 0.1% and fipronil 0.05%) to the skin and hairline at the rate of 0.03 ml/kg per animal after 72 hours has a 100% efficacy in flea infestations in dogs.

Prevalence and Clinical Aspects of Otodectes cynotis Infestation in Dogs and Cats in the Semi-arid Region of Paraíba, Brazil

Background: Infestation by Otodectes cynotis is one of the main causes of external otitis in small animals, causing great disconfort and predisposition to secondary bacterial or fungal infections, with relevant importance in the small animal medicine. In dogs, a small number of this parasite in the ears may cause inflammation, while in cats, otoacariasis accounts for half of the external otitis cases. Due to the insufficiency of data about the prevalence of this disease in the Northeast region of Brazil, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical aspects of O. cynotis in dogs and cats from the Semi-arid region of Paraíba, Brazil.Material, Methods &amp; Results: The research was conducted in the municipality of Sousa, Paraíba State, Brazil. A total of 102 dogs and 152 cats had their external ear canals examined by bilateral otoscopy, using an otoscope with a veterinary cone that allows inspection of the external ear canal. Parasitological swabs were also used to determine the prevalence of parasitism by O. cynotis. Samples collected in swabs were stored in a 70% alcohol preservative solution and sent to the Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, in wich were examinated on direct research, using microscopes in the 10x objective (magnification of 100x). In all animals, clinical examinations were performed and their owners answered an epidemiological questionnaire to collect information about food and sanitary management. During the clinical examination, characteristics such as otopodal reflex, and the presence of pruritus and/or cerumen were also evaluated. The prevalence of dogs and cats positive for O. cynotis was 33.3% (34/102) and 52.6% (80/152), respectively. Bilateral infestations occurred in 52.9% (18/34) of the positive dogs. Most of the positive animals showed evidence of the mite in both tests, Otoscopy + Swab (dogs: 58.8% - 20/34, cats: 66.2% - 53/80).Discussion: A high prevalence of O. cynotis infestation was observed in dogs (33.3%) and even higher prevalence in cats (52.6%), both are higher than it was expected. The diagnosis methods were effective for detecting infestation by this parasite, and the parasitological swab resulted in higher diagnosis rate than the otoscopy. The use of two diagnosis methods resulted in a greater number of positive diagnoses, explaining the high prevalence found in the present study. A higher prevalence was observed for animals that had contact with other animals. The direct form is the most accepted mode of transmission of Otodectes sp. and close confinement of animals was considered the main associated factor for frequent reinfestation by the mite. For dogs, the presence of cerumen and pruritus were seen as O. cynotis infestation factors. Considering dogs, in the clinical examination, the presence of pruritus was significantly associated with the occurrence of parasitism. This association can be explained because O. cynotis is very active within the ear canals of parasitized animals, causing great annoyance and pruritus. No statistically significant risk factors were found for cats, but it was observed that adults had higher levels of infestation when compared to young cats, wich was not expected, as the literature commonly reports that young cats have higher levels of infestation. This can be explained by the confinement and the usual direct contact by different cats, increasing the occurrence of the parasite. In cats, the clinical examinations showed that the presence of otopodal reflex was significantly associated (p&lt;0.2) with the parasitism occurrence (55.4%; 66/119). The evaluation of this reflex has been considered as one of the symptoms of otocariosis.

Efficacy and Safety of Natural Essential Oils Mixture on Tick Infestation in Dogs

Efficacy and Safety of Natural Essential Oils Mixture on Tick Infestation in Dogs

FLEAS OF CTENOCEPHALIDES (SIPHONOPTERA: PULICIDAE) ON CAT AND DOG IN HOME ENVIRONMENT, PALEMBANG CITY

Dogs and cats are often kept as pets, thus they stay close to humans. Parasitic/zoonotic diseases in humans were often caused by ectoparasite in cats and dogs. This study aimed to determine the morphological differences between cat fleas and dog fleas and the prevalence of cats and dogs infested by fleas around the home environment in Ilir Barat 1 District, Palembang City. The method used was descriptive exploratory method with field observation techniques and specimen collection. The study was conducted in November - December 2018 in five Sub-districts, (Bukit Lama, Bukit Baru, Lorok Pakjo, Demang Lebar Daun, and 26 Ilir 1). The results showed that cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) and dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) had different color and some morphological differences, such as the shape of the head, the number of spines in the genal comb, the number of notches in the tibia, and the number of seta in the metapisternum. The highest prevalence of fleas infestation in cats was in Bukit Lama and 26 Ilir 1 (33.3%), while the highest prevalence of infestation in dogs was in Demang Lebar Daun Village (36.6%). Only in Lorok Pakjo Sub-district that no dog fleas infesting dogs are found. __________________________________________________________

Comparative efficacy of afoxolaner and ivermectin in dogs naturally infested with Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato: A clinical field study conducted in Thailand.

Afoxolaner is a novel insecticidal and acaricidal of the isoxazoline family, which is used in veterinary practice to control infestation of dogs by fleas, ticks, and mites (NexGard, Boehringer Ingelheim). Ivermectin is an avermectin administered at microdoses to prevent infection of dogs with Dirofilaria immitis and is used off-label to control Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestation of dogs in numerous countries, including Thailand. Here we conducted two trials to assess the efficacy of afoxolaner for treating natural R. sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) infestations of dogs residing in the Chiang Mai area of Thailand. The first trial compared the efficacies of afoxolaner and ivermectin in dogs infested with <500 ticks. A randomized, investigator-blinded, controlled study was conducted of 16 dogs, allocated into the groups as follows: afoxolaner (2.7-6.9 mg/kg, PO, group 1; n = 8), ivermectin (300 μg/kg, SC, group 2; n = 5), untreated (group 3; n = 3). Tick counts and drug administration were performed on days 0, 28, and 56. Mean numbers of ticks on day 0 in groups 1, 2, and 3 were not significantly different (225, 169, and 123, respectively; p = .36). The mean number of ticks (%efficacy to control) in groups 1, 2 and 3 on day 28 were 7 (97.05%), 230 (2.95%), and 237, respectively; on day 56 were 4 (96.11%), 93 (9.71%), and 103, respectively; and on day 84 were 1 (98.65%), 44 (40.54%), and 74, respectively. The efficacy of afoxolaner was >96%, whereas the efficacy of ivermectin was significantly lower compared with that of afoxolaner (p < .05) and never achieved the 90% efficacy threshold claimed by registration agencies. The second trial assessed the efficacy of afoxolaner for treating dogs with heavy tick infestations (>500 ticks/dog), including four dogs from two households. The dogs were treated monthly with Afoxolaner. The mean values of the numbers of ticks on dogs in the 2 households were not significantly different (913 and 800 on day 0, p = .18). The numbers of ticks significantly decreased thereafter, and the efficacy of afoxolaner was >99% on days 28, 56, and 84. Adverse reactions were not observed in either trial. In conclusion, this study confirms the efficacy of afoxolaner against adult R. sanguineus s.l. that naturally infests dogs that inhabit Thailand.

Seasonal activity of ticks infesting domestic dogs in Bejaia province, Northern Algeria.

This epidemiological study aimed to determine the species of tick infestation in dogs, their prevalence and dynamic in the Bejaia province, northeastern Algeria. A total of 631 dogs were examined from different localities of the Bejaia province between March 2016 and February 2017. Of the 631 examined dogs, 15% were infested with one or more tick species. A total of 339 adult ticks were collected and identified, including 199 male tick species and 140 female tick species. Our results revealed that most of these were Rhipicephalus species, with Rhipicephalus sanguineus (51.32%) being the most prevalent followed by Rhipicephalus bursa (35.1%) and Rhipicephalus turanicus (12.98%). Ixodes ricinus represented only 0.6% of all ticks collected. The highest infested seasons were spring (22.55%) and summer (22.54%) and the lowest infested seasons were autumn (8.62%) and winter ( 0.9%). There is no significant difference between the sex of the animal and the prevalence of infestation (p = 0.837). Also, the prevalence of infestation by ticks in young animals was higher than that in adult animals (p = 0.550). A significant difference between the prevalence of infestation and animal breed was observed (p = 0.042). This study is the first epidemiological investigation conducted on the prevalence of hard ticks infesting domestic dogs in Bejaia (northeastern Algeria) based on conventional methods. It is therefore necessary to implement an effective tick control strategy during infestation periods in order to prevent vector-borne diseases.

Seasonal variation and persistence of tungiasis infestation in dogs in an endemic community, Bahia State (Brazil): longitudinal study.

Tungiasis is a zoonosis neglected by authorities, health professionals, and affected populations. Domestic, synanthropic, and sylvatic animals serve as reservoirs for human infestation, and dogs are usually considered a main reservoir in endemic communities. To describe the seasonal variation and the persistence of tungiasis in dogs, we performed quarterly surveys during a period of 2years in a tourist village in the municipality of Ilhéus, Bahia State, known to be endemic for tungiasis. Prevalence in dogs ranged from 62.1% (43/66) in August 2013 to 82.2% (37/45) in November 2014, with no significant difference (p = 0.06). The prevalence of infestation remained high, regardless of rainfall patterns. Of the 31 dogs inspected at all surveys, period prevalence was 94% (29/31; 95% CI 79.3-98.2%) and persistence of infestation indicator [PII] was high (median PII = 6 surveys, q1 = 5, q3 = 7). Dogs < 1year of age had a higher mean prevalence of 84.5%, as compared with 69.3% in the older dogs. No significant difference was found between the risk of infestation and age or sex (p = 0.61). Our data indicate that canine tungiasis persisted in the area during all periods of the year. The seasonal variation described in human studies from other endemic areas was not observed, most probably due to different rainfall patterns throughout the year. The study has important implications for the planning of integrated control measures in both humans and animal reservoirs, considering a One Health approach.

Prevalence of ticks on dogs in Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria

Ticks and tick-borne diseases have in addition to other socio-economic parameters, constituted major setbacks to the development of an economically viable livestock industry in Nigeria and other parts of the world. The prevalence of ticks on dogs brought to ECWA Veterinary clinic and Jos Veterinary clinic all in Jos Plateau State was studied. A total of 1,146 ticks were collected from 300 dogs randomly selected. Three species of ticks all from the family ixodidae were encountered and identified in order of abundance namely; Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Boophilus decoloratus and Haemaphysalis leachii. Of the 154 male dogs examined 70(45.16%) were infested with ticks. Of the remaining 146 female counterpart 85(54.84%) were infested. The investigation further revealed that adolescent dogs were more susceptible to tick infestation 73(47.10%) than the adult hosts 48(30.90%) when compared to the young dogs or puppies who were the least infested 34(22.00%). Statistical analysis using Chi-Square, showed a significant difference in the infestation rate between sexes of dogs and among tick species (p&lt;0.05) however, such difference was not observed in the ages of dogs and tick species (p&gt;0.05). Based on these findings, any strategy intended at mitigating the problems of tick infestation of dogs in Jos Plateau and the country at large should take into account the identified tick species.Keywords: Prevalence, ticks, dogs, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

Prevalence of ectoparasite infestations in owned dogs in Kwara State, Nigeria

In Nigeria, dogs are the common companions in many households and, harbor wide range of ectoparasites of severe zoonotic potentials. A cross sectional survey was conducted to examine the prevalence, intensity and risk factors of ectoparasite infestation among the owned dogs in Kwara state, Nigeria. A total of 333 dogs were screened for ectoparasites, and questionnaires were applied to obtain information regarding; age, sex, breeds, coat colour and management practices by dog owners. Two hundred and seventy one (81.4%) dogs were infested with at least one species of ectoparasite and multiple infestations recorded mostly among the female dogs. Six species of ectoparasites of three taxa were identified: ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, Haemaphysalis leachii and Amblyomma variegatum), fleas (Ctenocephalides canis and C. felis) and louse (Heterodoxus spiniger). R. sanguineus s.l. was the most prevalent (70.3%) followed by C. felis (42.1%) and H. spiniger (30.0%). Intensities of C. felis, H. spiniger and R. sanguineus s.l infestations were significantly higher in female and younger dogs (p < 0.001). Ectoparasites occurrence varied with breed and coat colour of host. A high prevalence of ectoparasite infestation recorded is at variance with the knowledge of dogs' owners in this study area. Therefore, intervention based on provision of veterinary clinics and prevention and management of parasite infestation in endemic area would mitigate the possible health hazard associated with the ectoparasitic infestation of dogs.

Laboratory evaluation of the efficacy of lotilaner (Credelio\u2122) against Amblyomma cajennense (sensu lato) infestations of dogs

BackgroundThe ixodid tick Amblyomma cajennense (sensu lato) complex, widespread throughout South and Central America, is also present in Mexico, Texas and Florida. As a vector of Rickettsia rickettsii, and potentially of other pathogens, infestations with A. cajennense present a substantial health risk to humans, dogs and other mammals. Oral administration of lotilaner flavored chewable tablets (CredelioTM, Elanco) to dogs was previously shown to rapidly provide killing activity of infesting ticks. This study investigated lotilaner’s efficacy against A. cajennense (s.l.).MethodsTwenty purpose-bred Beagles (10 male and 10 female) were ranked by Day -5 burdens of nymphal A. cajennense (s.l.) and randomized to either treatment with lotilaner or to a sham-treated control group. On Day 0, dogs were fed within approximately 30 min prior to oral lotilaner administration at as close as possible to 20 mg/kg, the minimum dose rate. For efficacy assessments, tick counts were completed 48 h post-treatment or 48 h after experimental challenge infestations with 200 nymphal A. cajennense (s.l.) on Days -7, -2, 7, 14, 21 and 28.ResultsTick infestations in the control group dogs ranged from a low of 43 to 95, with the average infestation remaining above 25% at each assessment, thereby meeting the requirement for efficacy comparison with the treated group. Lotilaner efficacy was 100% within 48 h post-treatment, and at nine days post-treatment. Efficacy was greater than 99% at all subsequent assessments through Day 30. No treatment-related adverse events were observed.ConclusionThe results demonstrate that lotilaner, administered orally to dogs at a minimum dose of 20 mg/kg is well tolerated, provides rapid reduction of existing A. cajennense (s.l.) tick infestations, and provides sustained residual protection for at least 30 days against subsequent infestation by A. cajennense (s.l.).

Ticks infesting dogs in rural communities of Yucatan, Mexico and molecular diagnosis of rickettsial infection.

Rickettsial infection in dog-associated ticks in three rural communities of Yucatan, Mexico was investigated using qPCR and nested PCR assays. A total of 319 dogs were studied and ticks samples were collected. A total of 170 dogs were infested with ticks (frequency of 53.4%). Overall, 1,380 ticks representing seven species were collected: Amblyomma mixtum, A.ovale, A.parvum, A. cf. oblongoguttatum, Ixodes affinis, Rhipicephalus microplus, and R.sanguineus sensu lato. The most abundant species was R.sanguineus s.l. with a mean intensity of 7.4 ticks/host. Dogs in the communities of Chan San Antonio and Yaxcheku were 2.84 and 2.41 times more likely to be infected with R.sanguineus compared with Sucopo (p<0.05). Adult pools of A. mixtum, A.parvum, I.affinis, R.microplus, and A. c.f. oblongoguttatum were negative to E.chaffeensis, E.ewingii, A.phagocytophilum, and R.rickettsii. However, pools of R.sanguineus s.l. adults and A.ovale adults, as well as nymphs of Amblyomma spp. were positive to E.canis. Sequencing analysis of the nested PCR products amplifying the 16S rRNA gene fragment of E.canis confirmed the results and revealed 100% identity with sequences of E.canis. This is the first report worldwide of E.canis infection in A.ovale by PCR. This finding does not necessarily indicate that A.ovale is a competent vector of E.canis because pathogen transmission of this specific tick to a naïve dog remains to be documented. This study documented that different tick species parasitize dogs in Yucatan, Mexico, where R. sanguineus s.l., A.ovale, and nymphs of Amblyomma spp. were shown to be infected with E.canis. These findings highlight the need for control strategies against tick infestations in dogs to prevent the risk of tick-borne disease transmission among companion animal and probably human populations.

Laboratory evaluations of the 3-month efficacy of oral lotilaner (Credelio\u2122) against experimental infestations of dogs with the Australian paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus

BackgroundFrom three days following host attachment, the Australian paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus, secretes a neurotoxin that annually causes paralysis in approximately 10,000 domestic pets. Lotilaner, a novel isoxazoline formulated in a chewable flavoured tablet (CredelioTM), produces rapid onset of acaricidal activity in dogs, with an efficacy duration of at least one month. Two studies were performed to determine the efficacy of lotilaner against I. holocyclus infestations over 3 months.MethodsBoth studies included 16 dogs, ranked according to I. holocyclus counts on Day -5 (from infestations on Day -8) and blocked into pairs. One dog in each pair was randomized to be a sham-treated control, the other to receive lotilaner at a minimum dose rate of 20 mg/kg on Day 0. Dogs were dosed in a fed state. Infestations were performed in both studies on Days -8 (to determine the tick carrying capacity of each dog) -1, 28, 56, 70, 77 and 84, and additionally in Study 1 on Day 91, in Study 2 on Days 14 and 42. In Study 1, ticks were counted and assessed as alive or dead at 24, 48 and 72 h post-initial infestation and post-subsequent re-infestations. In study 2, ticks were counted at 24, 48 and 72 h post-dosing or post-re-infestation. Efficacy was determined by the percent reduction in live attached tick counts in the lotilaner group compared to control.ResultsWithin 48 h post-treatment in Study 1 and within 72 h post-treatment in Study 2 all lotilaner-group dogs were free of live ticks. By 72 h post-infestation, efficacy in Study 1 remained at 100% through Day 87, except on Day 31 when a single tick was found on one dog, and through Day 59 in Study 2. Efficacy exceeded 95% through the final assessment in each study (Days 94 and 87 in Studies 1 and 2, respectively).ConclusionThese results demonstrate that lotilaner quickly kills existing I. holocyclus infestations. By providing 95.3–100.0% protection through at least 87 days post-treatment, lotilaner can be a valuable tool in reducing the risk of tick paralysis in dogs.

Laboratory evaluation of the efficacy of lotilaner (Credelio\u2122) against Haemaphysalis longicornis infestations of dogs

BackgroundThroughout Japan, Korea and China, Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks are vectors of Babesia gibsoni, which causes severe and progressive anemia in dogs. This study evaluated the efficacy of a single administration of lotilaner flavored chewable tablets (CredelioTM) against experimental canine H. longicornis infestations.MethodsTwenty-two healthy Beagles were ranked in descending order of counts of H. longicornis completed 48 h after challenge on Day -7. The 16 dogs with the highest live tick counts were blocked into pairs and within pairs randomized to either lotilaner-treatment at a minimum dose rate of 20 mg/kg or sham-treated controls. Treatment was administered within 30 ± 5 min following feeding on Day 0. Infestations with 50 unfed adult H. longicornis were completed on Days -2, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35. Elizabethan collars were placed for 48 (± 2) h after each infestation and a T-shirt was placed on each dog to facilitate attachment. Ticks were counted in situ 12 and 24 h post-treatment and counted and removed after an additional 24 h (48 h after treatment) and 48 h after each post-treatment infestation. Dogs were sedated for tick challenges and counts. Live attached ticks on each dog were counted for efficacy assessments. Lotilaner was considered effective if the average tick attachment rate in the control group was at least 20%, if there was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in mean tick counts between treated and control groups, and if the lotilaner-treated group had a calculated efficacy of at least 90%.ResultsAverage control group retention of the H. longicornis challenge exceeded 20% at each assessment. Lotilaner started killing H. longicornis ticks quickly, achieving 57.4% efficacy within 12 h. At 48 h post-treatment, and following each subsequent infestation, between-group differences in mean H. longicornis counts were significant (P < 0.0001). From 48 h post-treatment, through the final assessment on Day 37, lotilaner efficacy remained greater than 95%, including on Day 37 when efficacy was 98.4%.ConclusionLotilaner, administered to dogs orally at a minimum dose rate of 20 mg/kg is well tolerated, provides rapid reduction of existing H. longicornis tick infestations, and provides sustained residual protection for at least 35 days.

Early Babesia canis transmission in dogs within 24 h and within 8 h of infestation by male Dermacentor reticulatus ticks detached from sheep or dog

Background: This study was designed to assess the transmission of Babesia canis to dogs by pre-fed male Dermacentor reticulatus ticks within 8 or 24 h of infestation. Methods & Materials: The experiment was conducted in two steps. In a first trial, donor dogs and donor sheep were infested with Babesia canis infected male and uninfected female Dermacentor reticulatus ticks for 72 h. Attached ticks were subsequently removed, infested on new host dogs and were allowed to attached and feed before removal at 24 h after infestation. In a second trial, the experiment was repeated but the first infestation period was extended to 88 h and the second infestation period with the removed fed ticks shortened to only 8 h on host dogs. The dogs were maintained under clinical surveillance and blood samples were collected for blood smear, IFA and PCR analysis. Results: The tick infection rate was 16.3% (24 h infestation) and 13.7% (8 h infestation). All of the dogs (6 out of 6) were infected after being exposed to pre-fed male ticks for 24 h. Half of the dogs were infected after being exposed to pre-fed ticks for 8 h: 1 out of 3 dogs infested with ticks detached from sheep and 2 out of 3 dogs infested with ticks detached from dog. All the infected dogs were positive to blood smear, IFA and PCR. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the transmission of B. canis by pre-fed male D. reticulatus within 8 h of tick infestation in dogs. Since no minimal transmission time can be established for all possible natural situations, a strategy of prevention based on tick anti-attachment is recommended.