Aspects of intestinal helminth parasites of dogs in World Bank-assisted housing estate, New Owerri, Nigeria

Abstract

In a seven months (February to August, 2002) prevalence study of intestinal helminth parasites of dogs in the New Owerri area of Imo State, Nigeria, using both direct and concentration methods six helminth parasites were recorded. These included Hookworm, Strongyloides sp, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Diphylidium caninum and Taeniid eggs. Of the 554 faecal specimens of dog sampled, 454 (81.9%) were infected with one or more helminth parasites. Hookworm infections had the highest prevalence (22.2%), followed by Taeniid eggs (19.4%) with Strongyloides sp as the least (12.9%). While there was no significant variation amongst the prevalence of the helminth parasites and study areas (P>0.05), male dogs were significantly more infected than female dogs (P<0.05). Younger animals less than 36 months of age had significantly higher prevalence than the older animals (P<0.05). Infection was independent of the breeds of dog (P>0.05). The public health implications of some of the parasites encountered as well as lapses on the veterinary services in the new Owerri area are discussed.



AJAZEB Vol. 6 2004: pp. 26-30