Seroprevalence of canine hepatitis in stray dogs in Nineveh Province, Iraq

Abstract

Aim: The current study was conducted to explore evidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in dogs in Nineveh Province, Iraq. Materials and Methods: Serum samples of 78 dogs were used to (i) estimate levels of the antibodies against HBV through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and (ii) measure the activity of liver function enzymes. Results: Seropositive dogs for HBV constituted 9% of total tested dogs. The differences in seropositivity among males compared to females and among different ages were not statistically significant. Liver function enzymes analysis revealed a significant increase in the activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in seropositive dogs compared to those seronegative. Conclusion: Hepatitis B is evident in dogs in Nineveh Province, Iraq, with a significant impact on liver function in affected dogs. It is important to confirm this evidence through molecular tests.