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Canine myiasis by sheep bot fly (Diptera:Oestridae)
J Lucientes1, M Ferrer-Dufol, M J Andres
1Departamento de Patología Animal (Parasitología), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain.
Journal of Medical Entomology
|March 1, 1997
Summary
A dog in Spain was found to be infested with Oestrus ovis larvae. This case confirms that the sheep nasal bot fly can develop in canines, expanding known host range.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Parasitology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Oestrus ovis (sheep nasal bot fly) is a common parasite of sheep and goats.
- Larval development typically occurs within the nasal and sinus cavities of these definitive hosts.
- Infestation in non-traditional hosts like dogs is considered rare.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old cross-bred dog (Collie x German Shepherd) presented with symptoms indicative of nasal irritation.
- Examination revealed infestation by third-instar larvae of Oestrus ovis.
- The affected dog was located in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain.
Findings:
- This case provides definitive evidence of successful development of Oestrus ovis larvae in a canine host.
- The presence of third-instar larvae suggests a complete or significant portion of the parasitic lifecycle occurred within the dog.
- This finding expands the known host range and geographical distribution of Oestrus ovis infestations.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for Oestrus ovis to utilize domestic dogs as hosts, necessitating increased surveillance.
- May require veterinarians to consider Oestrus ovis in the differential diagnosis of respiratory or nasal conditions in dogs, especially in endemic areas.
- Underscores the importance of understanding parasite adaptability and host-switching dynamics in veterinary medicine and public health.