Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How to identify hookworm species in Australian and New Zealand dogs
By Stocker, T et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2023·Sydney School of Veterinary Science, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Unambiguous identification of Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala in Australian and New Zealand dogs from faecal samples.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that hookworms, which can harm dogs and even affect humans, were identified in fecal samples from dogs in Australia and New Zealand. In the Greater Sydney area, dogs were found to have either Ancylostoma caninum or Uncinaria stenocephala, but not both at the same time. In contrast, New Zealand dogs had a mix of both types of hookworms. The research also showed that the hookworms were generally still susceptible to common deworming medications. This highlights the importance of regular fecal testing and deworming to keep dogs healthy.
People also search for: dog hookworm symptoms · how to treat hookworms in dogs · dog fecal test results
Abstract
Hookworms (Ancylostomatidae) are well-known parasites in dogs due to their health impacts and zoonotic potential. While faecal analysis is the traditional method for detection, improvements in husbandry and deworming have decreased their prevalence in urban owned dogs. Drug resistance in Ancylostoma caninum is becoming a discussion point in small animal practices across the region. This study aimed to identify hookworm species present in Australian and New Zealand dogs using molecular techniques. The ITS-2 and isotype-1 β-tubulin assays were used to identify and quantify hookworm species. Results showed absence of coinfection in Australian samples from Greater Sydney region belonging either to A. caninum or Uncinaria stenocephala, while New Zealand samples were a mixture of A. caninum and U. stenocephala. The amplified isotype-1 β-tubulin sequences exhibited susceptibility to benzimidazole drugs. Rare mutations were identified in A. caninum and U. stenocephala sequences, representing a small percentage of reads. This study highlights the importance of molecular techniques in accurately identifying and quantifying hookworm species in dog populations.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37537874/