Gastrointestinal helminths and their prevalence in stray dogs in Tekirdağ province

This study was conducted on 150 dogs between September 2023 and May 2024 to determine the prevalence of digestive system helminths in dogs in the Tekirdağ region. Fresh feces samples were taken from the rectum of the dogs and these samples were placed in feces containers and delivered to the laboratory under a cold chain. Afterwards, stool samples were first examined macroscopically and then examined for helminth eggs using Fulleborn's saturated salt water flotation method. According to the fecal analysis results of stray dogs in Tekirdağ province, various helminth species were detected in 26.7% (40/150) of 150 dogs. In the remaining 73.3% (110/150), no helminth eggs were found. The most common species encountered in dogs was Ancylostoma caninum with a rate of 14.66%, while the least common species was Taenia spp. with a rate of 0.66%. Moreover %10,66 Toxocara canis, %1,33 Dipylidium caninum, %1,33 Trichuris vulpis has been detected. Chi-square test and Fischer Exact test were used to compare infection rates according to age, gender, season and parasite species, and the results are given in the tables. As a result, in this study conducted for the first time in Tekirdağ province, it was determined that there are helminth species that affect both dog and human health. In line with these findings, the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect the health of humans and dogs was emphasized.