Risk factors and prevalence of selected haemopathogens of dogs in Europe. A systematic review

Abstract

Vector-borne diseases are widespread in the dog population in Europe. Rickettsia, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Babesia, and Borrelia are some of the most relevant genus of vectors-borne pathogens of dogs, with a potentially high zoonotic risk. This study will focus on obtaining a representative picture of the prevalence and risk factors related to these pathogens in dog populations across Europe, by using a structured systematic review strategy. The results described in our study demonstrate the presence of a heterogeneous prevalence for these pathogens in dogs in Europe. Recent prevalence data suggest that many of these pathogens are currently endemic in many European countries. Based on the risk factor analysis described in this dissertation, prevention and control strategies for these diseases should focus on reducing the vector population, stablishing effective prophylactic measures for dogs at risk and increasing the diagnostic efforts for those canids more prone to carrying and developing clinical diseases by these vector-borne microorganisms.