Comparative distribution of ticks on dogs in the Calabar Metropolis, South-South Nigeria

Tick infestation is highly significant in livestock production. The prevalence of tick infestation in residential and clinic attending dogs in the Calabar Metropolis was studied. A total of 150 dogs (75 females: 45males) of < 2 years A¢Â€Â“ 6years was sampled between July and December, 2012. Three species of ticks Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Heamaphysalis leachi and Boophilus decoloratus were identified from the three sampled locations (Calabar South, Calabar Municipal and the National Veterinary Research Institute Zonal Laboratory, Calabar). Data was analyzed using student t-test and analysis of variance for significant differences. Rhipicephalus sanguineus was the most abundant. Tick attachment was more on the ears, neck and face (head), (50.0 A‚± 8.94) followed by the limbs/interdigital spaces and back (25.0 A‚± 4.12 and 16.67 A‚± 2.12) then the pelvic/anal region (8.33 A‚± 2.54). Young dogs had higher infestation (39.50 A‚± 7.69) followed by the adolescent (27.50 A‚± 6.47) whereas the adults had (18.0 A‚± 2.73). The female dogs were more infested than the males. Calabar South had highest infestation compared to the other locations. Dogs bathed with antiseptic soap had least tick infestation, compared to germicidal and bar soaps. Infestation was also reduced in dogs bathed more than once per week than those bathed once/month. The study on distribution of ticks on dogs is important in planning for the control strategy in Calabar.