Profile of Canine Cases in Government Veterinary Clinics in Imo State, Nigeria (1986 - 2000)

Abstract

A retrospective study of canine cases presented to Veterinary clinics in Imo State (1986-2000) was conducted using case files. Information sought included date of case presentation, breed, sex, age and type of case. During the study period 2,766 dogs were
presented for treatment. Of these, 98.4% (2,721) were Nigerian local breeds and 1.8%, exotic breeds. Also, forty different cases were handled in these dogs. The result of the study indicated low mean annual case load, with parasites (endo, 47.29%, ecto,
9.68% and blood protozoan 8.88%) dominating (66% of all cases). These were closely followed by surgical and other related cases (14.75%). Other medical cases such as allergic dermatitis, poisoning and unknown etiologies constituted 2% and 10% respectively. There was a significant variation (P<0.05) in means of cases of fracture, joint dislocations, and other traumatic injuries over the three 5-year period. The results also showed significant variation (P<0.05) among the means of all the medical cases except that of dermatitis over the three age groups of dogs. Allergic conditions appear to affect dogs of all ages. It was
concluded that low mean annual case load, high level parasitism, followed by surgical and other related cases characterized the report.

Keywords: Canine, surgical, medical cases, Nigeria

Sahel Journal of Veterinary Science Vol. 6 (1) 2007: pp. 27-34