B. canis

Introduction

• This species occurs in erythrocyte of dogs.

Morphology

• These are large form of piroplasms.
• Pyriform in shape, pointed at one end and rounded at other end.
• Frequently, there is vacuole in cytoplasm.
• Pyriform forms may lie at an angle to one another.

Lifecycle

• Mostly stage to stage transmission occurs through Rhipicephalous sanguineus throughout world.
• Other ticks: Dermacenter, Hemaphysalis, Hyalomma.

Pathogenesis

• Both young and old dogs are susceptible.
• Incubation period: 10-20 days
• Fever (38.9-40.6 ⁰C) is first sign. It is soon followed by marked anemia, Icterus inappetence, marked thirst, weakness, prostation and often death.
• Hemoglobinuria is seen in some acute cases.
• Anemia, Emaciation, Irregular temperature, Irregular appetite in chronic case.

Diagnosis

• On the basis of clinical signs and history
• Demonstration of organisms in blood animals.
• Immunodiagnostic test such as CFT, LFA and CHA may be useful.

Treatment

• Trypan blue is effective. Single IV injection of 4-5 ml of 1% solution is effective for average sized dog.
• Phenamidine @10 ml of 5% solution/kg body weight S/C in single dose. This is repeated after day.
• Quinotronium sukphate @0.05 mg/kg body weight S/C, repeat dose after day.
• Dogs recovered remain immune.