Prevalence of ectoparasites of dogs in Umuahia North and Ikwuano Local Government Areas of Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

A study on the prevalence of ectoparasites of dogs in Umuahia North and Ikwuano Local Government Areas of Abia State, Nigeria was investigated. A total of 220 dogs were examined, using purposive sampling method to select the households within the communities in the two LGA. The animals were examined for ectoparasites and identification was made using standard microscopic examination procedures. 145 dogs had infestation of ectoparasites with overall prevalence of 65.91%. Location showed association (p<0.05) with the occurrence of ectoparasites. Umuahia North and Ikwuano had a prevalence of 58/105, 55.24% and 87/115, 75.65% respectively. Sex had no association (p>0.05) with prevalence of ectoparasites. Males had numerically higher prevalence of 65/96, 67.71% than females 80/124, 64.52%. Breed showed association (p<0.05) with prevalence of ectoparasites. Prevalence was significantly higher in the local breeds 61/111, 77.06%, than in the exotic breeds 84/109, 54.96%. Age had no association (p>0.05) with the occurrence of ectoparasites. Ages 0 – 6 months showed prevalence of 49/75, 65.33%, ages 7 – 12 months showed prevalence of 52/78, 66.67% and above 12 months showed prevalence of 44/67, 65.67%. Species of ectoparasites showed association (p<0.05). Rhipicephalus sanguineus was the most prevalent (38.62%), followed by Haemaphysalis leachi (11.04%) and Ctenocephalides canis (6.21%). However, mixed infestation between R. sanguineus and C. canis was recorded with 44.14% prevalence. In conclusion, there was high prevalence of ectoparasite of public health importance in dogs from the studied area. Hence, the need for public health awareness on the impacts of these ectoparasites and their control measures.