Journal of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
(ISSN: 2659 – 0743)
Volume 7, No. 1, 2025
Pages 237-241
DOI: 10.36108/jvbs/5202.70.0142
Case Report: Canine Ehrlichiosis in a German Shepherd Dog (GSD): A Clinical and Laboratory Diagnosis
1Chukwu Victoria Elochukwu1,2, Igenoza Adebayo James3, Onyekanihu A.L. Chisom, Oraka Ann Oluchukwu4, Simon M. Kawe1 and Mohammed Balarabe Rabiu1.
1Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Abuja.
2Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Abuja.
3Veterinary Epidemiology & Vector Control Unit, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Edo State.
4Public Health Officer, Judiciary Medical Center, FCT, Abuja
ABSTRACT
Canine Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Ehrlichia canis, affecting dogs worldwide. This case report presents a confirmed case of Ehrlichiosis in a 2-year-old male German Shepherd Dog (GSD) with a history of tick infestation. The clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, treatment, and recovery progression were as detailed. The dog exhibited epistaxis, fever, emaciation, and reluctance to walk. The diagnosis was confirmed through a rapid test kit and microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears. Treatment with doxycycline, diaminazine aceturate, piroxicam, fluid therapy, and vitamin K1 led to a full recovery within 21 days. This report aims to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment in managing Ehrlichiosis in canines.
Keywords: Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis, Public health threat, Epistaxis, Vitamin K1, Fluid therapy