Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences
J. Anim. Plant Sci. [ISSN 2071 - 7024]
Volume 7 (2): 822 -833. Published June 29, 2010.
Prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites of dogs in Ibadan, south western Nigeria
Johnson O. Adejinmi and2Joseph O. Osayomi.
1. Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
2. Federal College of Animal Health and Production, Technology
Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Moor Plantation Ibadan, Nigeria
* Corresponding author: Olaadejinmi @yahoo.co.uk
SUMMARY
A twelve month study (January to December, 2007) was done to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites of dogs (aged three months and above) in Ibadan, Nigeria. Three hundred and twenty four (324) dogs’ faecal samples were examined for intestinal protozoan oocysts of which 154 were from local breeds, 141 exotic breeds and 29 cross breeds. The faecal samples were examined using formol – ether concentration method and modified Ziehl – Neelsen technique and sodium chloride flotation method.
The dogs were brought to Veterinary clinics in the city. Of the 324 dog samples 189(58.2%) were found positive for intestinal protozoan parasites. The local dogs had the highest prevalence 131 (40.4%) followed by exotic 40(12.8%) and cross 18(5.5%). Entamoeba histolytica, Isospora spp, Sarcocystis spp and Cryptosporidium spp were the intestinal protozoan parasites observed. E. histolytica was the most frequent parasite in all the breeds as well as in adults (age>12months) and puppies (age 3-12months). Cryptosporidium has the least prevalence in all the breeds. Infection rate was higher in puppies (age3-12 months) than adults (age>12months). Veterinary education was recommended for pet owners to avoid the spread of protozoan parasites infections among pets and humans and contamination of the environment.
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