Survey of Helminth Parasites of Dogs in Enugu Metropolis, South East Nigeria

This study surveys the prevalence and species diversity of helminth parasites in domestic dogs in Enugu metropolis, located in Nigeria's South East geopolitical zone. Dogs serve as reservoir hosts and transmission vectors for several helminth parasites of public health significance, including Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma caninum, and Echinococcus granulosus, making dog helminthiasis a matter of veterinary and community health importance. Using a cross-sectional design, faecal samples were collected from 160 dogs presented to veterinary clinics and held at the State Animal Welfare unit in Enugu between January and June 2023. Coprological examination was performed using the flotation technique with saturated sodium chloride solution and the sedimentation technique. Parasite eggs and oocysts were identified morphologically using standard reference plates. Findings revealed an overall helminth prevalence of 64 percent. Toxocara canis was the most prevalent species (38%), followed by Ancylostoma caninum (29%), Dipylidium caninum (18%), and Trichuris vulpis (12%). Mixed infections were identified in 34 percent of positive cases. Young dogs below one year of age showed significantly higher infection rates than adults. Dogs with no recorded anthelmintic treatment history showed five times higher odds of helminth infection compared to treated animals. The study recommends routine quarterly anthelmintic treatment for dogs, public education on the zoonotic risks of dog helminthes, and regular hand hygiene for dog owners, particularly parents of young children. Keywords: helminths, dogs, Enugu, Toxocara canis, zoonosis.