The prevalence of zoonotic intestinal helminthiasis in dog

Dogs are the most popular pets in the world, but at the same time, they are carriers of dangerous helminth infections. Dogs are in close contact with humans and can be a threat to the well-being of their owners and their surroundings. Small pets can be a potential source of zoonotic parasites, in particular, intestinal helminths such as Toxocara spp., Ancylostoma spp., Echinococcus spp., Dipylidium caninum. An environment contaminated with invasive parasite elements is a source of infection and poses a potential danger to the owners themselves, other carnivores, and the environment. Due to the close contact of dogs with people, the risk of transmission of common diseases increases. This study determined the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in dogs, particularly those that are zoonotic. 95 samples of feces collected from domestic and stray dogs of different age categories were studied. Based on the obtained results, the extensiveness and intensity of intestinal helminth infestation differed depending on the age category and lifestyle of the studied dogs. Coproovoscopic examination of dog feces revealed eggs of Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma caninum, Trichuris vulpis and cocoons of Dipulidium caninum. Depending on the way dogs are kept, the incidence of helminthiasis in stray animals was 3 times higher than in domestic animals. Thus, the prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis in domestic animals was 28.6%, in homeless (animals) - 90.6%. According to the age aspect, puppies up to 6 months of age had the highest extent of infestation. of both household and homeless age. In puppies kept at home, the pathogen Toxocara canis was detected in monoinvasion - 66.6%, and in the association of Toxocara canis + Dipylidium caninum - 33.3%. In stray puppies, it was detected only in the form of mixed infestations: Toxocara canis + Dipylidium caninum – 77.8%, Toxocara canis + Ancylostoma caninum – 22.2%. Therefore, it is an important task to disseminate information and raise the awareness of owners about the importance of cleaning dog feces in the surrounding environment. This will help to avoid infection and spread of helminthiasis, especially zoonoses. Key words: dog, intestinal helminths, helminthiasis, zoonoses, toxocariasis, hookworm, dipylidiasis.