Prevalence of Giardia Cysts in Household Dog Faeces within Zaria Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria and its Public Health Significance

Abstract

Giardiasis is a major cause of diarrhoea in both humans and animals. In developing countries such as Nigeria, the disease has important Veterinary and public health consequences. This study determined the prevalence of Giardia cysts in dog faeces in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria and its Public Health Significance. Four hundred and two (402) dog faecal samples were collected and examined for Giardia cysts using zinc sulphate flotation technique. Of the 402 dog faecal samples examined, 70 (17.4%) were positive for Giardia cysts. Giardia cysts were higher in male dogs (18.9%) than in females (15.6%). Higher prevalence of Giardia cysts were observed in puppies (<6months) (18.1%) than adults (>6months) (16.7%). Also higher prevalence of Giardia cysts was observed in cross/exotic breeds (20.9%) as compared to local breeds (16.4%). There was no statistical association between the prevalence of Giardia cysts and dogs with diarrhoea, sex, age and breed (P>0.05). There was a higher prevalence (15.7%) of Giardia cysts in strayed dogs than in confined dogs (14.6%). There was statistical significant association (P=0.01) between Giardia cysts and straying of dogs. Purpose of keeping dogs as Pet (OR: 0.36; 95% C I on OR< 0.14 < 0.92) and security (OR: 0.43; 95% C I on OR < 0.20 < 0.93) were the identified risk factors while type of feed, number of dogs per household and veterinary care were not risk factors (P>0.05) This research provides useful information on the prevalence of Giardia cysts in household dogs, which may help regulatory bodies and Government agencies in making policies in controlling Giardiasis in the study area.