Prevalence of ectoparasite infestation in dogs in Urmia suburb, Iran: A cross-sectional study

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

2 Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azarbaijan, Iran

Abstract

Canine infestations of ectoparasites are a significant medical and veterinary concern worldwide, including in Iran, due to the potential transmission of pathogenic agents. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and species diversity of ectoparasites in dogs in Urmia. A total of 138 dogs were randomly selected and examined between July 2022 and July 2023; this included 39 stray dogs, 99 sheepdogs, and 21 pet dogs. The body surfaces of the dogs were examined for ectoparasites, including ticks, mites, lice, and fleas. These parasites were directly removed from the dogs' skin and subsequently identified. The results indicated that out of the 138 dogs studied, 57 (41.30%) were infected with external parasites. Among the infected dogs, 32 (56.14%) had ticks from the genera Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus, 16 dogs (28.07%) were infected with mites, specifically Sarcoptes scabiei canis and Demodex canis, 5 dogs (8.77%) were infected with fleas (Ctenocephalides canis and Pulex irritans), and 4 dogs (7.01%) were infected with lice (Trichodectes canis). The study found significant differences in the prevalence of ectoparasites based on the sex and age of the examined dogs (p≤0.05). Male dogs exhibited a higher rate of infection, and ectoparasite infestations were more common in dogs younger than three years old. Additionally, the highest level of ectoparasite contamination occurred in the spring season. These findings highlight that ectoparasites are prevalent among dogs in the region, posing potential health risks to humans as they can act as vectors for the spread of infectious agents.....

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Main Subjects

Iranian Journal of animal Science

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 April 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 November 2024
  • Revise Date: 04 February 2025
  • Accept Date: 09 February 2025

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