Author Spotlight: Coproparasitoscopic Examination of Dog Stools for Control and Prevention of Zoonotic Parasite Diseases

Currently, a countrywide geolocation study of the zoonotic parasites of dogs is being carried out to put further control and prevention strategies for these diseases. The existence of a wide variety of ecosystems in Mexico influences the frequency of parasite infections in dogs. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out field work and identify these parasites to be able to propose region-specific deworming guidelines according to the epidemiology of each parasite.

The simple flotation technique is not sensitive enough to detect Cryptosporidium oocytes, Giardia cysts, or trichuriasis. We propose a concentration procedure for better coproparasitoscopic detection of these parasites. This technique can speed up and facilitate diagnosis of helminth infection in dogs in areas where no laboratory infrastructure or equipment are available.

Findings and deworming recommendations can be prescribed immediately after each microscopic examination. This protocol can be helpful in conducting routine fecal examinations under field or laboratory conditions to estimate the frequencies of Toxocara canis and Ancylostoma infections in dogs.