Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Dogs (Canis familiaris Linnaeus, 1758) and Dzos (Bos grunniens Linnaeus, 1766) in Upper Humla, Nepal

Background: Dogs and dzos are important domestic animals in human communities in high-altitude landscapes and are the potential carriers of different parasites. There is a risk of zoonotic parasite transmission between dzos and free-ranging dogs. Therefore, evaluating and managing the parasites could play a role in safeguarding health and overall well-being. Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and diversity of intestinal parasites in free-ranging dogs, owned dogs and dzos in Upper Humla, Nepal. Methods: Fecal samples (n=151), including 109 from free-ranging dogs, 12 from owned dogs, and 30 from dzos, were collected. Microscopic examination of the fecal samples was conducted using direct wet mount and acid-fast staining methods. Results: The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites was 75.49%, with 75.23% in free-ranging dogs, 66.67% in owned dogs and 80% in dzos. Nineteen parasite species (18 confirmed) were recorded with nine species in dzos, seven in owned dogs, and 17 in free-ranging dogs. Triplet infections were more common in free-ranging dogs, while duplicate infections were more prevalent in owned dogs and pentuplet infections were more frequent in dzos. The dogs and dzos of Upper Humla were commonly infected with Entamoeba spp., ascarids, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp. and Taenia spp. Conclusion: Intestinal parasites can substantially threaten human populations through zoonotic transmission. Controlling and managing the parasitic infection in dogs and dzos can help reduce the impact on human health.