Journal of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences

(ISSN: 2659 – 0743)

Volume 3, No. 2,  2021

DOI: 10.36108/jvbs/1202.30.0280
Pages 77-86

Babesia canis Infection and its Associated Risk Factors Among Dogs in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria.

Ezema K. U.¹, Mustapha M.²*, Audu Y.², Mairiga I. A.² Loksha M. D.² Adamu L.², Bukar-KoloY. M.².
¹Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri.
²Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri.

ABSTRACT

Epidemiological investigation was carried out to determine the prevalence of canine babesiosis in Jere Local Government Area (LGA) from January 2020 to February 2021. Blood samples were collected from a total of 280 dogs, and the samples were evaluated for Babesia canis (B. canis) infection. The data obtained were analyzed to determine the prevalence of B. canis and the relationship of the infection to age, sex, breed, management practices, dog use and presence or absence of tick on the dogs was also ascertained. A total of 36 (12.8%) dogs tested positive for the infection in the study area. Twenty three (8.2%) males tested positive for B. canis while 13 (4.6%) of females were positive. According to age, 15 (5.3%) of young dogs were positive while 21 (7.5%) of adults were positive for the infection. The prevalence was significantly higher (P<0.05) in local breeds of dogs than in exotic and cross breeds. The prevalence was higher among stray dogs with tick infestation than those without tick infection. However, there was no significant differences (P<0.05) between age, and sex of the infected dogs. The present study recorded highest prevalence in dogs from Shagari and Gomboru wards, followed by Bulumkutu and University quarters, the least prevalence was seen in dogs in custom area. It was concluded that B. canis infection was prevalent in the study area and affect dogs irrespective of their age, sex, breed, management practices and locations. Therefore, regular treatment and responsible dog ownership were recommended.

Keywords: Canine, Babesia, Prevalence, Infection, Risk factors.

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