ENDOPARASITES IN HUNTING DOGS IN VOJVODINA

Abstract

Concerning infectious diseases in hunting dogs, parasites represent an important etiological agent. Among zoonotic diseases, parasitosis, and in particular, helminthosis can cause serious public health concern. This study was performed to investigate infestations with endoparasites in hunting dogs. A total of 43 faecal samples from owned hunting dogs were collected, and were examined for the presence of endoparasites. The overall prevalence of endoparasitic infestation was 65, 15% and six species were found: Trichuris vulpis (44.19%), Ancylostoma caninum (27.91%), Capillaria spp. (16.28%), Isospora spp. (11.63%), Toxocara canis (9.30%), Toxascaris leonina (2.32%). The prevalence of endoparasites with zoonotic potential was 39.53%. These data are of importance for veterinarians in clinical practice, dealing with antiparasitic treatment and choosing appropriate antiparasitic drug for hunting dogs. Due to this, veterinarians should play an important role in helping to prevent or minimize zoonotic transmission of the parasites.