Search Results (131)

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, caused by Ehrlichia canis, is an important tick-borne disease of dogs in tropical and subtropical regions. This cross-sectional study investigated the occurrence, associated risk factors, and molecular confirmation of E. canis infection among clinically suspected dogs in Andhra Pradesh, India, and evaluated the diagnostic performance of blood smear microscopy relative to PCR. Peripheral blood samples were collected from 442 clinically suspected dogs presented to 90 veterinary dispensaries across the state. Dogs were selected based on clinical features suggestive of ehrlichiosis, including inappetence, pale mucous membranes, tick infestation, fever, lymphadenopathy, weakness, and hemorrhagic signs. Samples were examined by Giemsa-stained blood smear microscopy and subsequently tested by PCR. Representative virB9 gene amplicons were sequenced and compared with reference sequences available in GenBank. Microscopy detected E. canis in 37/442 dogs (8.37%), whereas PCR detected infection in 51/442 dogs (11.54%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that female dogs, mongrels, kennel dogs, and dogs with tick infestation had significantly higher odds of infection, while dogs with a history of tick-control measures had lower odds. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic placement based on the partial virB9 fragment supported molecular confirmation of the detected E. canis isolates and showed similarity with previously reported Indian and international isolates. These findings provide regional evidence on the occurrence and epidemiology of canine ehrlichiosis in clinically suspected dogs and support PCR as a more reliable confirmatory method than microscopy. Full article

Tick-borne diseases are a growing public health concern in the Mediterranean. Brijuni National Park (BNP), a unique, highly visited island ecosystem characterized by increased large game host density and diverse Mediterranean habitats, presents an elevated risk for pathogen co-circulation. This study addresses the lack of spatial and epidemiological data to accurately assess human exposure risk in this environment. We performed a detailed geospatial and epidemiological risk mapping of pathogen co-circulation in BNP. A total of 587 hard ticks were collected across 26 georeferenced micro-locations (2020–2022). Ticks were morphologically identified and subsequently screened for six key zoonotic bacterial pathogens using qPCR. The Minimal Infection Rate (MIR) and a Co-infection Rate (CR) were calculated. Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping was utilized to map ecological determinants of risk. Ixodes ricinus was the overwhelmingly dominant vector (94.0%), peaking in spring, with activity absent in summer. Recorded diverse tick fauna also included Hyalomma marginatum (3%), Haemaphysalis punctata (2%), Ixodes frontalis (0.8%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.2%). Active circulation of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. (Bbsl), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Ehrlichia canis were confirmed. Bbsl presented the highest MIR (3.05). The Co-infection Rate (CR) was notably high at 29.41%, with triple co-infections (Bbsl, A. phagocytophilum, E. canis) concentrated in cultivated mosaics and holm oak forests (Quercus ilex L.). The highest number of ticks was recovered from ecotone zones, accounting for 50.0% of the total catch, confirming them as high-risk interfaces. The absence of Rickettsia conorii may be attributed to the strict control/absence of its primary host (domestic dogs). The presence of the exotic vector H. marginatum was also confirmed. The high rate of co-infection and the spatial concentration of risk in specific habitats underscore an elevated and complex public health risk in BNP, closely linked to habitat structure and increased game host density. This research provides an essential geospatial framework for targeted ‘One Health’ management, prioritizing vector control in ecotone zones and dense forest refugia. Urgent surveillance for the exotic H. marginatum is warranted to monitor the potential risk of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever. Full article

Canine endometritis is commonly associated with bacterial infections caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Streptococcus canis (S. canis), leading to reproductive disorders in dogs. With increasing concern regarding antimicrobial resistance, alternative therapeutic strategies are needed. This study evaluated the in vitro antibacterial activity and underlying mechanisms of protocatechuic acid (PCA) against clinical isolates of these pathogens obtained from dogs diagnosed with endometritis. The antibacterial efficacy of PCA was assessed by determining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), and bacterial growth curves. PCA inhibited the growth of all three pathogens, with MIC values of 4 mg/mL for E. coli and S. aureus and 2 mg/mL for S. canis. The MBCs for E. coli and S. aureus were equal to their MICs, while the MBC for S. canis was twice the MIC, indicating bactericidal activity. Mechanistic analyses demonstrated that PCA disrupted bacterial membrane integrity, induced membrane depolarization, reduced intracellular ATP levels, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. These effects were supported by SYTO9/PI fluorescence staining and scanning electron microscopy. In conclusion, PCA exhibits notable in vitro antibacterial activity against key pathogens associated with canine endometritis and represents a promising natural antimicrobial candidate. Full article

The Carpathian Basin is a coherent biogeographic unit whose wildlife populations and pathogen dynamics are increasingly reshaped by administratively fragmented governance, land-use change and linear infrastructure. This review synthesizes evidence that the permeability patterns governing host movement also structure the transboundary exchange of genes and infections, creating a connectivity substrate for conservation genetics and One Health risk. Focusing on wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama) and the expanding golden jackal (Canis aureus), we integrate population genetic inferences with wildlife epidemiology to examine how highways, border fences and asymmetric management (e.g., supplemental, feeding practices, hunting pressure and surveillance regimes) can generate biological asymmetries across boundaries. We highlight African swine fever as an emblematic disturbance in wild boar populations, discuss cervid risks including tick-borne pathogens and chronic wasting disease (CWD) preparedness and evaluate zoonotic threats associated with carnivore expansion (e.g., Echinococcus spp.). We propose a Carpathian Basin-level monitoring and data-sharing architecture, coupling harmonized passive surveillance, strategic active surveillance for priority pathogens, and standardized genetic marker panels supported by interoperable metadata. A Basin-scale One Health approach is a pragmatic prerequisite for the coordinated prevention, early detection and resilient management of cross-border epizootics and zoonotic threats. Full article

Canine monocytotropic ehrlichiosis (CME), caused by the intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia canis, is a significant tick-borne disease in dogs that requires effective vaccination strategies. This study aimed to evaluate recombinant TRP19 (rTRP19), a highly conserved immunodominant antigen, as a promising vaccine candidate against experimental E. canis infection in dogs, following its success in a mouse model. Fifteen E. canis-negative beagles were immunized intramuscularly with either 50-µg or 100-µg of rTRP19 in alum adjuvant or a PBS control, on days 0, 30, and 60. All dogs were then exposed intravenously to E. canis on day 90 and monitored for 120 days for clinical signs, hematological changes (platelet count, hematocrit, and body temperature), and antibody titers. The rTRP19 vaccine prototypes induced strong antigen-specific humoral responses. They caused a significant reduction in rickettsial load, with complete elimination observed in the 100-µg group by day 7 and in both vaccinated groups by day 14 of exposure. Furthermore, the mean body temperature in the 100-µg rTRP19 group was significantly lower than that of the control group, suggesting that the higher-dose vaccine mitigated febrile response. Collectively, these results suggest that rTRP19 vaccine prototypes hold promise in overcoming the clinical signs and hematological abnormalities of E. canis infection by inducing a strong antigen-specific antibody response. Full article

Background/Objectives: This article describes the results of an analysis of the sensitivity of dermatophytosis pathogens to terbinafine, conducted by the authors based on a review of available scientific publications and data from their own research. Currently, no information is available on the sensitivity of Kazakh isolates obtained from patients at dermatological clinics. The aim of this study was to compile data on the resistance of dermatophytes to terbinafine over the past decade worldwide and investigate the sensitivity of dermatophyte isolates collected from patients in Astana, Kazakhstan, to terbinafine. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, utilizing the Pubmed and Cochrane Library databases with specific keywords. The sensitivity of the dermatophytes to terbinafine was assessed using EUCAST E.Def 11.0 method. Results: Screening of terbinafine susceptibility among Kazakh clinical isolates revealed that all Microsporum canis strains (57/57, 100%) were sensitive to the drug. Among 33 Trichophyton spp. isolates, 4 (12.1%) demonstrated resistance to terbinafine, with MIC values ranging from 0.125 to 1.5 µg/mL. The resistant isolates belonged to the species T. indotineae, T. interdigitale, and T. mentagrophytes. Conclusions: Terbinafine remains highly effective against Microsporum canis in Kazakhstan, while a small proportion of Trichophyton isolates show resistance. Continuous monitoring of dermatophyte susceptibility is warranted to guide effective treatment. Full article

Ehrlichioses and anaplasmosis are among the most commonly reported tick-borne diseases in humans and some animal species. Ehrlichia canis is the causative agent of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis; it primarily affects dogs and is usually transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks. Some reports suggest that this bacterium is a zoonotic pathogen capable of causing clinical symptoms consistent with human monocytotropic ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia chaffeensis. Non-human primates seem to be susceptible to E. canis-infection, although it is not clear whether the bacterium can cause disease in these mammals. The number of cases of E. canis infections in human beings and other primates could be underestimated, mainly because inappropriate laboratory diagnoses are often carried out. Serological tests do not distinguish infection by E. canis from those due to other ehrlichial species; therefore, a correct diagnosis is possible only through molecular methods. Furthermore, E. canis is not usually recognized by veterinarians and clinicians as a possible pathogen of primates, and it is not included in the panel of tick-borne pathogens routinely investigated. Further studies are pivotal to verify the pathogenicity of E. canis in primates, and epidemiological investigations are needed to monitor its spread in animal and tick species not usually associated with this agent. Full article

Protoparvoviruses are highly contagious pathogens that cause severe, often fatal diseases in both domestic and wild carnivores. Golden jackal (Canis aureus) populations have experienced expansion in recent years, increasingly occupying urban and peri-urban areas. Despite this, they remain largely overlooked in scientific research. This study aimed to detect and characterise Protoparvovirus carnivoran1 circulating in a golden jackal population in Croatia and to assess their role in the epidemiology of parvovirus infections in companion animals. Small intestines from 55 jackals hunted in 2024 and 2025 were tested for Protoparvovirus carnivoran1 using real-time PCR. Positive samples were found across all sampling sites, with an overall positivity rate of 40%. Based on characteristic amino acid residues within the VP2 protein, the viruses detected in jackals were classified as feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). Phylogenetic analysis of the VP2 protein demonstrated considerable genetic diversity among strains circulating in Croatia. Additionally, a distinct group was identified, shared exclusively by Croatian domestic cats and golden jackals. Amino acid analysis revealed the novel A91T mutation, found only in jackals, and the E411Q mutation, unique to Croatian FPV strains. Structural modelling of the VP2 protein indicates that the observed mutations are located on the protein surface, within the antibody-binding site. These findings highlight the potential role of wild carnivores in parvovirus epidemiology and underscore the importance of including them in future surveillance and research efforts. Full article

Tick-borne diseases (TBD) pose a significant threat to both animal and public health, particularly in tropical regions. In the Colombian Caribbean region, there is limited knowledge of the epidemiology of TBD in domestic animals and their vectors. In this study, conducted in northern Colombia from 2021 to 2022, we analyzed the molecular diversity of Anaplasmataceae in a total of 1156 ticks and blood samples collected from their infested hosts: 56 cattle and 17 equids (horses and mules). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were performed, using primers to amplify the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene for tick identification and bacterial 16S and 23S rRNA to detect Anaplasmataceae. The amplified products were sequenced and analyzed for molecular characterization of species. Four tick species were identified: Dermacentor nitens (55.6%), Rhipicephalus microplus (43.0%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (0.7%), and Amblyomma patinoi (0.7%). Overall, 9.4% of the pooled tick samples were identified as R. microplus, and 64.4% of the blood samples tested positive for Anaplasmataceae. Molecular analyses identified Anaplasma marginale in cattle and several species in ticks, including an Anaplasma sp. closely related to A. platys-like, Ehrlichia ruminantium, and E. muris and Ehrlichia variants closely related to Candidatus E. rustica, E. canis, and E. minasensis. The results indicate high infection rates and the circulation of both well-known and potentially novel Anaplasmataceae species, suggesting complex transmission dynamics among ticks and hosts. Full article

Blood transfusions are indispensable in Veterinary Medicine, providing therapeutic support in cases of hematological disorders. Several pathogens can cause disease and/or exacerbate the condition of immunocompromised dogs or those requiring a transfusion. This study aimed to investigate the molecular occurrence of hemopathogens (Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., piroplasmids, and hemoplasmas) in blood donor and patient dogs using samples from a clinical veterinary laboratory in Brazil. One hundred blood samples were collected from each group. All dogs tested negative for Bartonella spp. in all performed assays. Among the 100 dogs from the clinical veterinary laboratory, 15% (95% CI: 9.3–23.3) tested positive for Ehrlichia spp., 6% (95% CI: 2.8–12.5) for Anaplasma spp., 3% (95% CI: 1.0–8.5) for Babesia spp., and 2% (95% CI: 0.6–7.0) for hemoplasmas. Blood donor dogs tested positive for hemoplasmas (5%) (95% CI: 2.2–11.2). Additional conventional and real-time PCR assays followed by sequencing confirmed the presence of Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Babesia vogeli, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum’, and Mycoplasma haemocanis. The molecular detection of E. canis, A. platys, ‘Ca. M. haematoparvum’, and M. haemocanis in dogs from midwestern Brazil reinforces the relevance of molecular tools in diagnosing hemopathogens. This is the first molecular detection of hemoplasmas in canine blood donors from Brazil. This finding indicates their silent circulation and highlights the importance of molecular screening to prevent the worsening of clinical conditions and the risk of turning recipients into new sources of infection. Full article

Wild animals often serve as reservoirs for vector-borne zoonoses, which are on the rise worldwide but have not yet been sufficiently researched. Vector-borne zoonoses, such as those caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, and Dirofilaria immitis, are a growing public health concern due to their increasing incidence and broad host range. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for vector-borne bacterial (borreliosis, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis) and parasitic (dirofilariasis) pathogens and to detect some of these pathogens in the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population in Croatia. A total of 179 blood samples from foxes from nine districts were analysed. The SNAP ^® 4Dx ^® Plus rapid test was used to detect circulating D. immitis antigen and antibodies against B. burgdorferi, A. phagocytophilum/Anaplasma platys, and Ehrlichia canis/Ehrlichia ewingii. Circulating D. immitis antigen was detected in 6.70% of the samples (95% CI: 3.20–10.19%), while antibodies against A. phagocytophilum/A. platys were found in 10.06% (95% CI: 5.8–14.25%). Only one sample was positive for B. burgdorferi, while no antibodies were detected for E. canis/E. ewingii. Spatial analysis revealed statistically significant differences in prevalence by geographical region (district) and age, while no significant correlations were found. In the standard PCR analysis, DNA of D. immitis was not detected in any of the eight positive and eight negative SNAP ^® 4Dx ^® Plus samples. D. repens, A. reconditum, or co-infections were also not detected by PCR. Of the nine samples that tested positive for A. phagocytophilum/A. platys antibodies, four were confirmed to be positive for A. phagocytophilum by nested and semi-nested PCR targeting the 16S rRNA and GroEL genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed similarities with various European strains, including zoonotic strains. This study is the first molecular detection of A. phagocytophilum from blood samples of red foxes in Croatia. The results show that red foxes are not free from infections such as anaplasmosis and dirofilariasis, emphasising their possible role in the maintenance and transmission of these pathogens in certain regions of Croatia. These results underline the need for further research to better understand the epidemiological importance of red foxes in the spread of vector-borne diseases. Full article

Considering the clinical relevance of commensal yeasts (Malassezia and Candida) and zoophilic dermatophytes (Microsporum canis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes) in dogs and cats, this study determines the prevalence of fungal species involved in ear and superficial skin infections in dogs and cats in Grenada and examines their antifungal susceptibility. The etiological agents were isolated from ear, skin, and hair samples of suspected clinical fungal cases using Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SAB). The isolates’ identification comprised morphological, biochemical, and molecular methods encompassing micro-/macroscopy analysis. Biochemically, yeast isolates were identified by the BD Phoenix M50 microbial identification system, and additional validation of all fungal isolates was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the ITS region. Furthermore, the E-Test (Epsilometer Test) was used to determine the susceptibility patterns for four azole drugs: ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, and voriconazole. A total of 405 samples (266 ear, 61 skin, and 78 hair) were collected from 136 dogs and 43 cats. The identified species were Malassezia pachydermatis, Candida tropicalis, and Trichophyton spp. All isolates demonstrated (100%) resistant activity to fluconazole. Importantly, this knowledge will significantly contribute to our understanding of the epidemiology of fungal infections as well as provide guidelines for preventive measures against fungal infections in Grenada. Full article

Most research on domestic dog (Canis familiaris) behavior has focused on pets with restricted movement. However, free-ranging dogs exist in diverse cultural contexts globally, and their interactions with humans are less understood. Tourists can facilitate unrestricted dog movement into wilderness areas, where they may negatively impact wildlife. This study investigated which stimuli—namely, voice, touch, or food—along with inherent factors (age, sex, sociability) motivate free-ranging dogs to follow a human stranger. We measured the distance (up to 600 m) of 129 free-ranging owned and stray dogs from three villages in southern Chile as they followed an experimenter who presented them one of the above stimuli or none (control). To evaluate the effect of dog sociability (i.e., positive versus stress-related or passive behaviors), we performed a 30 s socialization test (standing near the dog without interacting) before presenting a 10 s stimulus twice. We also tracked whether the dog was in the company of other dogs. Each focus dog was video-recorded and tested up to three times over five days. Generalized linear mixed-effects models revealed that the food stimulus significantly influenced dogs’ motivation to follow a stranger, as well as a high proportion of sociable behaviors directed towards humans and the company of other dogs present during the experiment. Juveniles tended to follow a stranger more than adults or seniors, but no effects were found for the dog’s sex, whether an owner was present, the repetition of trials, the location where the study was performed, or for individuals as a random variable. This research highlights that sociability as an inherent factor shapes dog–stranger interactions in free-ranging dogs when food is given. In the context of wildlife conservation, we recommend that managers promote awareness among local communities and tourists to avoid feeding dogs, especially in the context of outdoor activities close to wilderness. Full article

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical with estrogen-like activity, known to impair immune function. BPA may act as a pro-inflammatory agent, reducing immune response efficacy, increasing bacterial load in E. coli infections, and altering immune responses in parasitic infections (Leishmania major, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Toxocara canis) through cytokine and regulatory T-cell modulation. Following its ban in food contact materials in Europe, several analogs have been introduced. This study assessed the immunotoxicity of BPA and six analogs, namely BPAP, BPE, BPP, BPS-MAE, BPZ, and TCBPA, by evaluating in vitro the antibody production. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy male and female donors were exposed to increasing concentrations of each compound for 24 h. After stimulation with rhIL-2 and ODN2006, IgM and IgG secretion were measured on day six. All compounds suppressed antibody production in a concentration-dependent manner, with some sex-related differences. IC₅₀ values showed BPP as the most potent suppressor, and BPE as the weakest. Similarly, IC₂₀ values confirmed these differences in potency, except for BPA being the weakest for IgM in males. Overall, te results do not support the idea that BPA analogs are safer than BPA. Full article

The expansion of human activities can degrade natural habitats, thereby increasing threats to wildlife conservation. The wild populations of many species have declined due to the modification of natural habitats by humans. The Arabian wolf (Canis lupus arabs) is a subspecies of the gray wolf that is of conservation concern across its distribution range. The Arabian wolf is understudied in certain habitats (e.g., mountainous areas), which limits understanding of its overall ecology. Given its vulnerable conservation status, this study aimed to collect relevant data and information on incidents and potential threats facing this predator in the rugged mountainous habitats of western Tabuk province, Saudi Arabia, and how the effects of these threats can be minimized. In these mountain habitats Arabian wolves encounter various severe threats that challenge relevant conservation efforts. Observations of such threats—some of which result in wolf mortality—represent serious challenges to the survival of wild Arabian wolves. Conflicts with humans and livestock represent considerable threats that must be appropriately managed. Additionally, the potential association between Arabian wolves and free-ranging dogs requires further investigation. Various conservation scenarios and mitigation approaches can be applied to help reduce negative impacts on Arabian wolf populations and maximize their likelihood of survival. Overall, ensuring the persistence of such a unique desert-adapted apex predator in this ecosystem must become a conservation priority. Full article