Strongyloides Stercoralis In A Pomeranian Dog In Israel

Strongyloidiasis, as a result of Strongyloides stercoralis (Rhabditida: Strongyloididae) infestation, is occasionally recognized in a range of vertebrate hosts, including humans and dogs and causes widespread clinical disease in infected individuals ranging from asymptomatic to fulminating respiratory or gastrointestinal disease. We describe a case of strongyloidiasis in a young Pomeranian puppy that presented after history of a seizure and gastrointestinal disease associated with inadequate weight gain. Blood and parasitological analyses, that included Baermann culture and fecal flotation, revealed severe leukocytosis, anemia and hypoglycemia, as well as the presence of Strongyloides spp. in feces. PCR targeting the nuclear ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial (coxl) genes followed by sequencing of the amplicons revealed 100% identity with S. stercoralis and HVR IV haplotype A, which is potentially zoonotic. After two repeated five-day treatments with oral fenbendazole, infection was cleared and the dog recovered. Small animal clinicians should be aware of this disease especially among the canine progeny of animal breeders and shelter dogs whereby ideal conditions for increased transmission cycles may likely take place. Moreover, due to its zoonotic potential, a correct diagnosis of Strongyloides is crucial in order to prevent infection of those people that are involved in the care of infected dogs.