Colonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in multi-dog households: A longitudinal study...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Canine Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is an increasing concern in canine health globally.
• Limited understanding exists regarding MRSP transmission dynamics and long-term carriage in multi-dog households.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate MRSP transmission to contact dogs in multi-dog households with a clinically infected index dog.
• To evaluate MRSP carriage over several months in dogs living with an MRSP-infected companion.

Main Methods:

• Studied MRSP carriage in 11 dogs across four households over several months.
• Employed whole-genome sequencing for genotypic characterization of MRSP isolates.
• Correlated MRSP positivity in contact dogs with the index dog's status.

Main Results:

• Contact dogs were only MRSP-positive when the index dog was positive during the same sampling period.
• Whole-genome sequencing confirmed MRSP transmission within household groups.
• Three contact dogs remained consistently MRSP-negative throughout the study.

Conclusions:

• MRSP transmission within dog households is confirmed, with risk influenced by the index dog's clearance.
• Not all contact dogs continuously carry MRSP even when the index dog is positive.
• Whole-genome sequencing is a valuable tool for investigating MRSP epidemiology and transmission.