HELMINTH PARASITES OF DOGS SLAUGHTERED IN CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE.
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in dogs slaughtered for consumption in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. A total of 100 faecal samples were collected and examined microscopically using standard parasitological techniques. Out of 100 samples, 35 (35.0%) tested positive for at least one helminth parasite. Four helminth species were identified, including Ancylostoma caninum (20.0%), Echinococcus granulosus (8.0%), Strongyloides stercoralis (5.0%), and Taenia sp. (2.0%). Nematodes accounted for a higher proportion (25.0%) compared to cestodes (10.0%). Although females (39.47%) showed a higher infection rate than males (32.26%), and Marian location (39.02%) had a slightly higher prevalence than Watt (32.20%), these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). No cases of mixed helminth infections were observed. the relatively moderate prevalence may reflect partial confinement and improved dog management practices. However, the presence of zoonotic helminths such as Echinococcus granulosus, Strongyloides stercoralis, and hookworms raises significant public health concerns especially for individuals involved in the handling or consumption of dog meat. Routine deworming, public sensitization, proper meat inspection, and improved hygiene practices at slaughter slabs are recommended to minimize zoonotic risks.
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