Toxocariasis, Its Zoonotic Importance and Chemotherapy in Dogs

A total of 600 faecal and hair samples (200 of dog faecal, 200 dog’s hair and 200 dog owner’s stool samples) were collected and examined for the presence of Toxocara canis eggs. Toxocara canis eggs were found in 74(37percent) faecal samples, 25 (12.5percent) in hair samples and in 47 (23.5percent) dog owner’s stool samples. Prevalence was higher in pups and children than adults. Twenty five eggs were recovered, of which 2.1percent were embryonated, 12.5percent were embryonating. The maximum densities of the embryonating and embryonated eggs were 180 and 20 EPG per gram of hair respectively. A total of 60 dogs positive for toxocariasis were divided randomly into three groups, A, B and C (control group) each with 20 dogs. Dogs in group A and B were treated with Ivermectin and Levamisole hydrochloride, respectively. The efficacy of the drugs was calculated on the basis of reduction in the number of ova discharged in faeces. Results showed that Ivermectin and Levamisole hydrochloride were 97.3percent and 97.4percent effective respectively. Levamisole hydrochloride is much cheaper than Ivermectin and it was slightly more effective.