Studies on the incidence of babesiosis in dogs in the YSR District of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The present study was aimed to report the prevalence of dogs with babesiosis in Y.S.R district of Andhra Pradesh. Overall prevalence of canine babesiosis was per cent 21.93% (136/620) based on peripheral blood smear examination. Among 136 positive cases canine babesiosis was found to be higher in dogs be 1-4 years of age and followed by 4-7years age group. Breed wise prevalence of canine babesiosis was highest in Labrador retriever (37.50%). The occurrence was higher in males (65.44%) compared to females (34.56%) in canine babesiosis. The occurrence of canine babesiosis most commonly observed in monsoon season (37.50%), less commonly observed in post-monsoon season (13.24%). More incidence was noticed in male dogs because male dog population was more than female dogs. The higher incidence observed in Labrador Retrievers may be due to the greater concentration of the breed in the locality. Monsoon season noticed higher incidence due to vector population is more and presence of ticks over the body consider as the chances for infection is more likely to occur.