Canine Parasites in Southern Nevada Urban Dog Parks: Paravec Study

While dogs are one of humans’ greatest companions, they also serve as hosts for a multitude of parasites. Urban dog parks serve as environments where the transmission of diseases is likely to occur. Exposure to infective agents, contained within the soil, intermediate hosts (e.g., rodents, rabbits), and feces, can directly affect the health of dogs and their owners. Other factors that can further influence canine health include age, previous diagnoses of parasites/diseases, and migration. Many dog owners visit dog parks to encourage socialization and exercise. Such activities are meant to improve health, but unawareness of microbiological organisms can lead to detrimental health conditions if not prevented and treated at the early stages. Human populations, such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals, who are exposed to certain species of protozoa, helminths, and other parasites, may develop physical and neurological damage. In this study, n = 100 fecal samples from 16 Clark County, NV urban dog parks were collected from canine pets. After laboratory processing using fecal smear and fecal flotation procedures (i.e., sugar and salt), and microscopic observations, we found that canine parasites were present in n=50 (50%) of stool samples. Out of those that were observed, protozoan, nematode, and cestode species were identified, most of which have zoonotic potential. It is important that public health professionals encourage communities to monitor their pets’ health. For instance, appropriate vaccination, routine veterinary checkups, and proper hygienic practices can reduce the risk of transmission.