and Other Vector-Borne Infections in Shelter Dogs in Two Counties of Oklahoma, United States.

Abstract

is an emerging zoonotic vector-borne parasite infecting dogs and other mammals in the United States. In this study we evaluated shelter dogs in one northeastern and one southeastern county in Oklahoma for prevalence of exposure to. Dogs were tested for antibodies againstusing the Chagas STAT PAKassay and forin circulation by PCR. In addition, dogs were tested for evidence of infection with other vector-borne organisms using the SNAP4DxPlus Test and PCR. Overall, 26 of 197 (13.2%) shelter dogs had detectable antibodies againstand 3 of 189 (1.6%) dogs were PCR positive. In addition, we found that 42 of 197 (21.3%) shelter dogs had evidence of exposure to or were infected with at least one vector-borne agent other thanbased on serology and/or PCR; 9 of 42 (21.4%) of these dogs were also positive forantibodies. Other infections identified in dogs included,,sp. (Coco),,,,, and. This study serves to boost state-wide veterinary and public health awareness ofand other vector-borne pathogens infecting shelter dogs in Oklahoma. Results indicate the need for more comprehensive screening of shelter dogs in Oklahoma for exposure to vector-borne agents to enhance surveillance and to identify dogs in need of additional specific veterinary care.