Toxocara canis Infection and Associated Risk Factors in Owned Dogs in Two Communities, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara canis, is a widespread zoonotic infection transmitted between dogs, the environment, and humans, posing significant public health risks due to its global prevalence and the ability of infective eggs to contaminate soil and cause disease in accidental hosts. Aims: This study was conducted to investigate the current prevalence and risk factors associated with T. canis infection in dogs in the selected communities, southern Nigeria. Methods: Fresh faecal samples were collected from 326 dogs from two communities in Southern Nigeria between December 2024 and May 2025 and processed for helminth egg recovery using the modified Kato-Katz technique. Questionnaires were administered to dog owners to obtain information on demographics, knowledge of zoonosis and management practices. Results: The overall prevalence of T. canis in dogs was 30.1%. Infection was highest in dogs aged 0 – 6 months (66.7%), in female dogs (33.7%), stray dogs (38.2%), in local breeds (39.7%) and in dogs that feed on type of food (42.2%). Logistic regression analysis showed that dogs aged 0 – 6 months [OR = 6.27, 95% CI: 2.962 – 13.154, p = 0.000] are six times more likely to harbour Toxocara infection than others. Stray dogs [OR = 1.842, 95% CI: 1.091-3.111, p = 0.022] are almost twice as likely to be infected with T. canis than others while dogs that feeds on anything [OR = 0.856, 95% CI: 0.326-2.246, p=0.009] are more likely to harbour Toxocara parasites than others fed differently. Conclusion: Dogs in the sample communities were heavily parasitized with Toxocara canis. Younger age, breed type, and veterinary care practices were significant determinants of T. canis infection. Improved veterinary care, routine deworming, and better feeding management could reduce infection risk in dogs and minimise zoonotic transmission.