Vector-borne pathogens affecting shelter dogs in eastern Crete, Greece

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Blood-borne pathogens in dogs pose risks to animal and human health.
• Mediterranean regions, including Crete, Greece, often lack comprehensive data on canine vector-borne diseases.
• Financial constraints can limit the investigation of these significant pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of blood-associated pathogens in shelter dogs on Crete, Greece.
• To identify specific pathogens and assess co-infection rates.
• To raise awareness among local veterinarians and rescue organizations regarding canine vector-borne diseases.

Main Methods:

• Screening of blood samples from 103 shelter dogs using PCR and serological tests.
• Detection of antibodies against Leishmania infantum.
• Identification of Hepatozoon canis and Mycoplasma haemocanis via PCR.

Main Results:

• Overall, 41.8% of dogs tested positive for at least one pathogen.
• Prevalence rates: Leishmania infantum (25.2%), Hepatozoon canis (14.6%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (10.7%).
• Nine dogs had co-infections; clinical signs were observed in 10 infected dogs.

Conclusions:

• Dogs in Crete are frequently exposed to multiple blood-borne pathogens, including zoonotic agents.
• The findings suggest a need for enhanced veterinary surveillance and control strategies for canine vector-borne diseases in the region.
• This study provides crucial data, potentially the first for some pathogens in this area, to inform local practices and prevent disease spread.