Ticks infestation on household dogs and their zoonotic implications: a comparative study from two states in Nigeria

Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites of significant veterinary and public health importance, transmitting a wide array of zoonotic pathogens to both animals and humans. Understanding tick infestation patterns in different regions is crucial for effective control and prevention strategies. This study aimed to assess and compare tick infestations in household dogs across two regions in Nigeria, Minna (Niger State) and Ibadan (Oyo State), to evaluate regional variations in tick intensity and their zoonotic implications. A total of 392 dogs were sampled, yielding 1,385 ticks, with Rhipicephalus sanguineus being the most prevalent species (91.4%), followed by Boophilus sp. (5.4%) and Haemaphysalis sp. (3.2%). Younger dogs (< 1 year) harbored most ticks, with infestation patterns significantly associated with the dog's age (χ² = 32.512, p < 0.001), sex and household roles, and management practices. Dogs in Ibadan exhibited a higher mean tick intensity (7.98) compared to Minna (1.55), as confirmed by the Mann-Whitney U test (U = 0.0, p < 0.001). Infestation rates also varied by household roles and management practices; caged dogs in Ibadan were predominantly infested with Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Haemaphysalis sp., while free-range dogs in Minna were more commonly infested with Boophilus sp. The zoonotic risks associated with tick-borne pathogens, including Rickettsia sp. and Babesia sp., highlight the urgent need for integrated tick control strategies. These should include regular acaricide application, improved dog management practices, and public health campaigns to raise awareness of zoonotic risks. This study provides critical insights into the regional dynamics of tick infestation and offers recommendations for mitigating the public health burden of tick-borne diseases in Nigeria.