Multidrug therapy and hematological profiling in 18 canine babesiosis cases: A clinical perspective

Abstract

Background: Canine babesiosis is a significant vector-borne disease of dogs in India. Prompt diagnosis using peripheral blood smear and timely treatment are essential to prevent complications. This study evaluates 18 smear-confirmed cases of canine babesiosis treated with a clindamycin-doxycycline-metronidazole regimen, assessing their clinical, hematological, and therapeutic response. Methods: Dogs with signs of babesiosis were evaluated through clinical examination and Giemsa-stained peripheral blood smear. Hematological and biochemical parameters were recorded before and after treatment. All dogs received triple-drug therapy and were monitored over 21 days. Results: Pallor (88.9%), anemia (100%), lethargy (77.8%), and fever (83.3%) were predominant clinical signs. Hemoglobinuria was observed in only 2 dogs (11.1%). The therapy led to a 94.4% recovery rate and parasite clearance by Day 14 in 88.9% of dogs. Conclusion: Clindamycin-doxycycline-metronidazole therapy is effective in treating canine babesiosis in settings where molecular diagnosis are unavailable. Blood smear remains a reliable diagnostic tool in routine clinical practice.