Occurrence of endo and ecto parasites of dogs in Dawaki and Bukuru Dog Markets in Plateau State, Nigeria

The study was aimed at determining the prevalence of endo and ectoparasite of dogs in Dawaki and Bukuru dog markets of Plateau State. A total of 150 dogs were sampled for haemoparasite, gastrointestinal parasite and ectoparasites. Standard floatation technique and Giemsa stained thin blood smear methods were used for gastrointestinal and haemoparasites, respectively while ectoparasites were identified using standard taxonomic keys. A total 10.67% (16/150) were positive for haemoparasite, 30.67% (46/150) for gastrointestinal parasite and 16.00% (24/150) for ectoparasites. Gastrointestinal parasites detected included Ancylostoma species as 20.67% (31/150), Diphylobothrium latum as 12.67% (19/150), Isospora species as 5.33% (8/150), Taenia species and Necator americanus recorded the same frequency 0.67% (1/150); only single haemoparasite detected during the present study was Babesia canis 10.67% (16/150) while ectoparasites detected includes Rhipicephalus species as 15.33% (23/150) and Amblyomma species as 2.67% (4/150). No significant difference (p<0.05) was seen in the association based on age, sex and location. It was concluded that ectoparasites, haemoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites some of which may pose threat to public health are prevalent in the study area and affect the dogs irrespective of their age, breed or location. Strategic treatment of dog and responsible ownership with proper housing management were recommended. Key words: Endoparasites, ectoparasites, dogs, dog markets Plateau State.