DETECTION OF BABESIA CANIS IN INDIGENOUS DOGS IN KANKE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

Babesiosis is a tick borne disease caused by the protozoan blood parasite Babesia canis that destroys red blood cells. This study is aimed at detection of Babesia canis in indigenous dogs in Kanke Local Government Area in Plateau State using parasitological technique. One hundred (100) dogs screened were randomly selected from households within the area. Data obtained were analyzed using chi- square statistical analysis and simple percentage. Overall results show an infection rate of (15.00%). The female 8(53.33%) and male 7(46.67%) infection rate was recorded. The adults showed higher prevalence 14(93.33%) than puppies 1(6.67%) of the infected dogs, adult had 14(18.40%) and puppies had 1(4.20%) infection rate. There was 1(6.67%) below normal temperature, 10(66.67%) normal temperature and 4(26.67%) above normal temperature infection rate respectively. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed between gender and age while there was significant difference (P<0.05) between the temperature of dogs examined. Therefore recommendation was made based on seasonal variation, molecular diagnostic techniques and serological examination.