Role of pet dogs in transmitting zoonotic intestinal parasites in Egypt

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of zoonotic intestinal parasites in pet dogs and their owners in Cairo and Giza Governorates, Egypt. Methodology: A total of 395 fecal samples collected from pet dogs beside 145 stool samples from humans were subjected to macroscopic and microscopic examination using different flotation and sedimentation techniques. Results: The overall prevalence of enteric parasites in the examined dogs was 25.6%. Higher prevalence was shown in police dogs (43.3%) followed by pet shop dogs (30.8%) and finally in household dogs (13.8%). Cryptosporidium was the most frequent parasite detected in the examined dogs (10.1%) and humans (10.3%), whereas Giardia was the lowest one (0.5 and 2.8% respectively). In addition, Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar were found at a rate of 5.6% (dogs) and 7.6% (humans). Trichuris vulpis, Toxascaris leonina and Toxocara canis were identified only from the examined dogs at a rate of 3.3, 5.8 and 0.3% respectively. Young age (<6 months), female sex, local breed, undercooked feeding, outdoor housing and irregular de-worming were significantly associated with increased prevalence of the identified parasites in dogs. Regarding humans, the highest prevalence of enteric parasites was found in the age group between 5-10 years old (60%). Gender did not affect the risk of an infection in the study population. Conclusion: In conclusion, parasitological results in this study clearly highlight the significant role of pet dogs as a host for several species of enteric parasites; therefore preventive measures should be taken to avoid the environmental contamination and infection of both man and animals.