The prevalence and epidemiology of cestodes in dogs in Clwyd, Wales

Abstract

Studies of a foxhound pack and gundog kennel in Clwyd, Wales showed 47 of 162 foxhounds (29%) and six of 25 gundogs (24%) to be infested with cestodes. Taeniia species were found in both groups, T. hydatigena being most common. Echinococcus granulosus and Dipylidium caninum were found in hounds only.

The husbandry of the dogs was investigated and close relationships were found between diet, worming procedures and cestode infestation. These dogs play an important role in disseminating cestode eggs in the environment. Recommendations for control of the problem are made. Foxhounds and other hunting dogs play a particularly important role in the life-cycle of cestodes because their diet frequently includes uncooked carcasses and because they hunt over large areas of countryside, facilitating the widespread dissemination of infective eggs.